How to Get Rid of Chipmunks: The Bucket Method Unveiled
How to Get Rid of Chipmunks Bucket Method?
To get rid of chipmunks using the bucket method, follow these instructions.
Fill a 5-gallon bucket about 2/3 full with water.
Cover the surface of the water with black oil sunflower seeds.
Optionally, smear peanut butter inside the bucket above the waterline to attract the chipmunks.
Place a piece of wood next to the bucket as a ramp for the chipmunks to climb and fall into the water.
The length of the wood piece should be determined by the height of the bucket, but approximately 3-4 feet is recommended.
After catching the chipmunks in the bucket trap, you can use cayenne pepper as a deterrent.
Key Points:
- Fill a 5-gallon bucket with water
- Cover the water’s surface with black oil sunflower seeds
- Optionally, smear peanut butter on the bucket above the waterline
- Place a piece of wood next to the bucket as a ramp for the chipmunks
- Use a wood piece that is approximately 3-4 feet in length
- After catching the chipmunks, use cayenne pepper as a deterrent
Did You Know?
1. In ancient times, chipmunks were considered sacred animals in some Native American cultures and were believed to possess magical powers.
2. Chipmunks have a special pouch in their cheeks that allows them to store and transport large amounts of food, sometimes up to 70 nuts at a time!
3. Chipmunks are talented acrobats and climbers, thanks to their sharp claws and strong hind legs. They can easily navigate trees and even scale vertical walls.
4. Chipmunks communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, including high-pitched chirps, trills, and even soft purring sounds during mating rituals.
5. Despite their small size, chipmunks are known to create intricate underground burrow systems, consisting of multiple entrances and tunnels for safety and storing food. Some chipmunk burrow systems can span up to 11 meters!
Gather Necessary Materials
Getting Rid of Chipmunks Using the Bucket Method
Getting rid of chipmunks can sometimes be a challenging task, but with the bucket method, you can effectively trap and remove these pesky critters from your property.
To begin, you will need to gather a few materials:
- A 5-gallon bucket: Make sure it is sturdy, made of plastic or metal, and capable of holding water.
- Water: Fill the bucket to about 2/3 full, as this will provide enough space for the chipmunks to fall in without giving them an easy escape route.
- Black oil sunflower seeds: These will act as bait and attract the chipmunks towards the trap.
- Peanut butter (optional): Smearing a small amount of peanut butter inside the bucket, above the waterline, will entice the chipmunks with its irresistible scent.
Note: The bucket method is an effective way to trap and remove chipmunks from your property.
Prepare The Bucket Trap
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to set up the bucket trap.
- Place the bucket in an area where chipmunks are frequently seen, such as near a garden or bird feeder.
- Ensure that the bucket is stable and won’t easily tip over.
“The key to successfully trapping chipmunks is to effectively set up the bucket trap.”
Attract Chipmunks With Sunflower Seeds And Peanut Butter
To improve the efficacy of the bucket trap for chipmunks, it is recommended to follow these steps:
- Sprinkle a generous amount of black oil sunflower seeds over the surface of the water. This will create an enticing visual for the chipmunks as the seeds float on top.
- For additional appeal, smear a small amount of peanut butter inside the bucket, just above the waterline. The scent of the peanut butter combined with the delicious seeds will make it even harder for the chipmunks to resist.
Remember to position the bucket trap in an area where chipmunks are commonly spotted. By incorporating these elements, you can significantly increase the chances of successfully capturing chipmunks.
Create A Means For The Chipmunks To Access The Trap
To ensure the chipmunks fall into the bucket, create a way for them to access the trap. Place a sturdy piece of wood next to the bucket, acting as a ramp or stairs for the chipmunks to climb up. The length of the wood piece will depend on the height of the bucket, but it is recommended to use a 3 to 4-foot piece. Make sure the wood is securely placed, allowing the chipmunks easy access to the edge of the bucket.
Consider The Size Of The Wood Piece For The Trap
When choosing the size of the wood piece for the trap, it’s important to consider the height of the bucket. The wood should be long enough to allow the chipmunks to comfortably climb up, but not too short to hinder their access. Additionally, ensure that the ramp or stairs offer a gradual incline for the chipmunks to easily navigate.
By carefully selecting the appropriate size of the wood piece, you increase the chances of effectively trapping the chipmunks.
- Consider the height of the bucket when choosing the wood size.
- Ensure the wood allows chipmunks to climb comfortably.
- Use a gradual incline for the ramp or stairs.
- Effective trapping depends on the proper wood size.
Remember to always be cautious when dealing with traps and handling wild animals.
Deterring Chipmunks With Cayenne Pepper
After successfully trapping the chipmunks, it is essential to prevent further infestation. One effective way to deter these critters from returning is by using cayenne pepper. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the perimeter of your property, focusing on areas where chipmunks are likely to enter. The strong scent of the pepper acts as a natural repellant, discouraging chipmunks from returning to your garden or bird feeders.
By following these instructions and using the bucket method, you can get rid of chipmunks and protect your outdoor spaces from their destructive habits. Remember to release any trapped chipmunks in a safe location away from your property to ensure their well-being. With some patience and persistence, you can enjoy a chipmunk-free environment once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the bucket trap work on chipmunks?
The bucket trap can be effective in trapping chipmunks if set up properly. Placing the trap on flat, level ground increases its chances of success. It is essential to ensure that the bucket is not completely filled with water, as chipmunks may reach the bait without falling into the bucket. A helpful tip is to add black oil sunflower seeds to the bucket of water, as they will float on top, enticing the chipmunks to investigate and potentially leading to a successful trapping outcome.
What is the best chipmunk trap?
When it comes to the best chipmunk trap, the Harris Cage Trap stands out as a top choice. Thanks to its durable construction with rust-resistant stainless steel, this trap is designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Its thicker wiring is an added advantage, providing effective prevention against chipmunks chewing through and escaping the trap. Considered one of the easiest and most economical solutions, the Harris Cage Trap is a reliable option for safely capturing and releasing chipmunks.
What is the best bait for trapping chipmunks?
In the quest to outsmart chipmunks, one must remember that peanut butter and oatmeal can make a powerful bait combination. Its irresistible aroma will lure chipmunks to the live trap, enticing them to venture into the trap’s confines. By strategically placing the trap near their active dens or along their well-trodden paths, the chances of successful trapping exponentially increase. With the tantalizing mixture of peanut butter and oatmeal, chipmunks won’t be able to resist and will unwittingly walk right into the waiting trap, providing a humane and effective trapping solution.
What are the steps involved in using the bucket method to get rid of chipmunks?
To use the bucket method to get rid of chipmunks, follow these steps:
1. Find a suitable location: Identify an area in your yard or garden where chipmunk activity is high. Look for areas with evidence of burrows, tunnels, or food sources.
2. Set up the bucket trap: Fill a large bucket with a few inches of water and place it at the chipmunk’s entrance hole or near their preferred pathways. You can also add some bait to attract the chipmunks, such as sunflower seeds or nuts, on a platform leading to the bucket.
3. Create a ramp: Place a wooden plank or a sturdy stick from the ground to the edge of the bucket, allowing the chipmunk to access the bait. Ensure that the plank is steep enough to allow the chipmunk to fall into the bucket when it reaches the end.
4. Monitor and release: Check the trap regularly to see if any chipmunks have fallen into the bucket. Once caught, keep other chipmunks away while you release the captured one in a suitable location far from your property.
Remember to handle the bucket with care and ensure the chipmunk’s well-being during the release process.