Hobbies And Interests
Vocalizations
One way that chipmunks communicate is with the various vocalizations at their disposal. Anyone who has lived near chipmunks knows what these sound like. Some of them could be described as loud "chips," "chip-trills" and soft "cuk-cuk-cuk" sounds. Different sounds have different purposes. Some, for instance, warn other chipmunks in the area of a predator nearby. Other vocalizations alert nearby chipmunks that a certain territory is occupied.
Pheromones
Another way that chipmunks communicate -- along with many other species of animals, including humans -- is pheromones. In chipmunks, the anal glands secrete chemicals, the scent of which is then picked up by other chipmunks. Pheromones can be used to signal any number of things, depending on the exact chemical secreted, but a common purpose for pheromone secretion is to help initiate mating.
Touching
Chipmunks also use touch to communicate, a trait they share in common with many other species of animals. Chipmunks may, for instance, touch their nose against the nose of another chipmunk during an encounter, a gesture that is likely linked to mating. Mother chipmunks also use touch to communicate and bond with offspring.
Body Language
Body language is another important way that chipmunks communicate with each other. Most people who have seen chipmunks have seen their characteristic behavior that includes stiff, jerky movements and erect tails. Chipmunks will also chase each other to help establish a hierarchy among competing males. This sometimes results in biting.