Chipmunks are known for being cute little woodland creatures. They can be found in forests, areas dense with shrubbery, or other ground covers that are ideal places for chipmunks to scavenge while avoiding predators. In the U.S., there are two types of chipmunks commonly encountered. These include the Eastern chipmunk and the least chipmunk. Least chipmunks have an expansive range across north-central and the western U.S. But you’ll only find Eastern chipmunks east of the Mississippi River. Both species of chipmunks are diurnal. That means that these creatures are most active throughout the day and rest at night. Chipmunk Lifespan Chipmunks can give birth to one or two litters each year. Typically, both species breed in the spring. But the Eastern Chipmunk often breeds a second time in late summer to produce an additional litter. For both types of chipmunks, the gestation period lasts approximately 30 days. At that point, the female may give birth to a litter of two to six kits. Newborn chipmunks are hairless. In time, their sealed eyes will open, and their ears will fully develop. Because chipmunks nest in burrows, you aren't likely to spot baby chipmunks until they look like smaller adults. Although they can live longer in captivity, most wild chipmunks only live for two years. Do Chipmunks Hibernate? Chipmunks do not hibernate! But you may rarely see these pests during winter. Instead, they try their best to avoid chilly conditions in a state of rest. Throughout the cold weather, chipmunks try to conserve energy. From late fall to early spring, the pests spend the majority of their time sleeping underground. But on warm days, chipmunks may wake up to forage for food outside. Chipmunk Burrows A chipmunk’s burrow is a key part of its existence. Chipmunks build elaborate burrows with nesting rooms and storage rooms. Throughout the warm months, the critters will spend their time building up stores of nuts and seeds to eat throughout the winter. The hole to a chipmunk burrow may only be approximately one to two inches wide. It is not uncommon for the chipmunk to have multiple openings into its burrow system. In most cases, the chipmunk will have one entrance open and keep the others covered with leaves to deter unwelcome guests. The entrance may be small. But the small openings can lead to an extensive system that may be up to three feet deep and 30 feet long. In colder months, the chipmunk will spend most of its time in the burrow. With a supply of food at the ready, they rarely venture out in the winter. What Do Chipmunks Eat? Chipmunks naturally eat nuts, seeds, mushrooms, berries, plant bulbs, insects, bird eggs, and snails. However, they may expand their palette in close proximity to humans if the opportunity arises. You may find chipmunks eating pet food from outdoor bowls and stealing seeds straight from bird feeders. Additionally, these pests can become a nuisance if you have a garden. They will help themselves to any fruits and vegetables that are available. In a pinch, you may even find a chipmunk gnawing on your trees or any wooden structures, which can create scratches and tooth marks. Depending on the amount of food available, you may find up to ten chipmunks per acre. That leaves a lot of room for destruction on your property. Get them out. Keep them out.® Experience wildlife or pest issue? We can help! Complete this form and your local Critter Control® office will contact you to assist. indicates required field. Name: Email: Phone: Zip / Postal Code: Wildlife Issue (Optional): Best Rodent Removal in Atlanta Larry M. 4/30/2023 They have been able to eliminate the yellow jacket problem and keep them away. Everyone I have delt with have been helpful and friendly. Becky F. 4/28/2023 Your representatives make your company! They are knowledgable and responsive. I was fortunate to have a great representative for several years. When that changed, I was concerned that the new tech wouldn't be as well trained. I am extreamly happy with my new tech and can say that all of the service employes have been outstanding. Mona A. 4/27/2023 Tech comes out monthly and takes care of everything. If we have any new issues, they are handled immediately. Adrian J. 4/27/2023 All the technicians are very kind and knowledgeable. Everyone always goes the extra mile anytime I need assistance. Great company to do business with. Elena O. 4/22/2023 Technicians are knowledgeable, polite, helpful, easy to reach out to. Greg J. 4/16/2023 The technician is very knowledgeable and courteous. He called in advance to notify me about an upcoming treatment. He inquires about any problems that I may have observed. He leaves a note to inform me that the appointment was completed. Quicklinks Chipmunk Infestation Identify a Chipmunk Nuisance Chipmunk Problems Chipmunk vs. Gopher Chipmunk Traps & Deterrents