Camper Chipmunk Crisis: Effective Eviction Strategies

Chipmunks may be adorable, but they can be a nuisance when they make their way into your camper. These furry critters are known to cause damage by chewing on wires and nesting in hard-to-reach places, potentially leading to expensive repairs. So, how can you prevent chipmunks from invading your space? Here are some tips and tricks to keep them at bay.

Seal entry points with caulk or mesh screen

Chipmunks can enter your camper through small openings, so it's important to seal any potential entry points. You can use caulk or mesh screen to block these openings and prevent chipmunks from getting inside.

Caulk is a good option for sealing small cracks and crevices. It's flexible and can be applied in thin layers, making it ideal for filling narrow gaps. Look for gaps in the camper's walls, especially under counters and around pipes, wires, and other openings. Fill these gaps with caulk to prevent chipmunks from squeezing through.

For larger openings, a mesh screen is a better option. Use a fine mesh screen with small openings, such as a 1/4-inch mesh hardware cloth. Cut the screen to fit the size of the opening and secure it in place. You can use screws, staples, or glue, depending on the surface. Make sure to seal any gaps around the edges of the screen to ensure that chipmunks cannot slip through.

Pay close attention to areas where pipes, wires, or other utilities enter the camper. These areas often have larger openings that chipmunks can exploit. Seal these areas with a combination of caulk and mesh screen. First, fill the gap with caulk, then cover it with a layer of mesh screen for added protection.

By sealing entry points with caulk and mesh screen, you can effectively prevent chipmunks from entering your camper. This method is safe, humane, and can be applied to a variety of openings. Remember to regularly inspect your camper for new gaps or holes, especially after periods of storage or travel, as vibrations and shifting can create new entry points for chipmunks.

Use deterrents like Irish Spring soap, peppermint oil, or dryer sheets

If you're looking to keep chipmunks out of your camper, deterrents like Irish Spring soap, peppermint oil, or dryer sheets can be a good place to start. Here are some tips on how to use these deterrents effectively:

Irish Spring Soap

Irish Spring soap is known for its strong aroma, which chipmunks cannot stand. To use it as a deterrent, grate the soap and create a barrier of soap shavings around your camper. You can also cut or break the soap into small pieces and place them in sachets or organza bags. Hang these bags around your camper, especially near windowsills, to keep chipmunks away. This method not only repels chipmunks but also works on a variety of other pests.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil has a strong scent that is unpleasant to chipmunks. Soak cotton balls in a mixture of peppermint oil and water, or simply dab a few drops of peppermint oil onto the cotton balls. Place these cotton balls underneath bushes, between plants in your garden, under your deck, and in other areas where chipmunks are known to frequent. This method is effective in repelling chipmunks and can also be used to deter other types of pests.

Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets have a strong scent that chipmunks find repulsive. Place dryer sheets inside your camper, especially in cabinets and storage compartments. This will not only help repel chipmunks but will also make your camper smell pleasant. However, keep in mind that dryer sheets may not always be effective, and chipmunks may still find their way inside.

While these deterrents can be useful, it's important to combine them with other preventative measures. Seal any openings or holes in your camper with mesh screens or spray foam to prevent chipmunks from entering. Keep your space clean and free of food residue, as any food left out will attract chipmunks and other pests. Additionally, consider using electronic repellents that emit frequencies that drive pests away. By combining multiple methods, you can effectively keep chipmunks out of your camper.

Place bird feeders away from the camper

Chipmunks are attracted to bird feeders, so it is important to place bird feeders away from your camper to prevent chipmunks from getting too close. Ideally, bird feeders should be placed at least 15 to 30 feet away from any structure, including your camper. This will help to create a safe distance between the chipmunks and your living space.

Chipmunks are ground feeders and are drawn to seeds that fall from bird feeders. They are also attracted to sunflower seeds, so if you fill your bird feeders with seeds to which chipmunks are not attracted, such as thistle, you can help to deter them. Regularly cleaning up any spilled seeds from the area around your bird feeders will also help to keep chipmunks at bay.

In addition to strategic bird feeder placement, there are several other measures you can take to keep chipmunks away from your camper. These include removing potential hiding spots, such as wood and rock piles, and keeping the area free of food sources that may attract chipmunks, such as corn, nuts, and birdseed. Trimming back plantings and branches that hang over your camper will also help to prevent chipmunks from accessing it.

If chipmunks are already inside your camper, you can try to isolate them in one area by closing all interior doors and opening windows and exterior doors to allow them to find their way out. If this method is unsuccessful, you can set a humane trap, using sunflower seeds, pumpkin, raisins, cereal, or nuts as bait, and then release the chipmunk back into the wild, at least 5 miles from your home.

Trap and release chipmunks

Trapping and relocating chipmunks is an ethical way to deal with persistent chipmunks. Before attempting to trap a chipmunk, check local laws and recommendations for relocating them in your area. Relocation may not be legal in all areas.

Choosing a Trap

Select a small trap, approximately 10 to 20 inches long, with small wire mesh so the chipmunk cannot escape. You can choose a 1-door or 2-door trap. A 2-door trap provides a higher catch rate and can be set with 1 or 2 doors open.

Trap Placement

Place the trap in areas of known chipmunk activity, including traffic paths and near burrows. Locations under cover are better than exposed areas. One of the best places to position a trap is outside a chipmunk burrow. If you identify a chipmunk burrow, place your trap along a path nearby. If you are trapping a chipmunk indoors, close off all doors, holes, and cracks that the chipmunk may use to escape to other parts of the camper. Remember, chipmunks can squeeze through holes the size of a quarter, so cover up even the smallest cracks.

Baiting the Trap

Use bait that chipmunks can't steal. Spread peanut butter directly onto the trigger plate. If using a solid bait, select one that's larger than the mesh openings of the trap—unshelled peanuts are a great choice. Position the bait so that the chipmunk has to step on the trigger plate to reach it.

Checking the Trap

Check the trap often, and relocate the chipmunk as soon as it is trapped. Wear gloves to avoid contact with the trapped chipmunk and handle the trap gently, speaking softly. Release the chipmunk in a suitable habitat at least 5 miles from your home or as specified by local law.

Cleaning the Trap

Chipmunks have a strong sense of smell, and even the faintest sign of human scent on your trap could deter them from entering. Clean your trap after every use and wear gloves when handling it, even when it's empty. To disinfect the trap, use a bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Apply the solution and wait 20 minutes before wiping down the trap.

Remove food sources and eliminate hiding spots

To prevent chipmunks from entering your camper, it is essential to remove food sources and eliminate hiding spots. Here are some detailed instructions to help you achieve this:

Remove Food Sources

Chipmunks are attracted to food sources, so removing or properly storing food items is crucial. Here are some specific steps to take:

• Keep all food items in airtight containers. Store them in cupboards or pantries, ensuring no food is left out in the open.
• If you have a bird feeder, choose seeds that are less appealing to chipmunks, such as thistle instead of sunflower seeds.
• Regularly clean up any spilled seeds or bird feed around the feeder.
• Place bird feeders at a distance from your camper. A recommended distance is at least 15 to 30 feet away from any structure.
• Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outdoors unless they are stored in rodent-proof containers.

Eliminate Hiding Spots

Chipmunks seek shelter in wood and rock piles, so removing potential hiding spots is essential. Here are some specific steps to take:

• Remove wood and rock piles near your camper.
• Trim back plantings close to the camper to reduce potential cover for chipmunks.
• Keep firewood, leaf, and debris piles away from the camper to prevent chipmunks from burrowing and potentially gaining access to the underside of the vehicle.
• Avoid allowing trees, shrubs, or other plantings to create a continuous path from wooded areas to your camper, as this will attract chipmunks.
• Seal any gaps or openings in your camper that chipmunks could use to gain entry. Use materials such as steel wool, caulking, or spray foam to block these entry points effectively.

Frequently asked questions