Common Indiana Chipmunks

Characteristics

• The eastern chipmunk is 5 to 6 inches in length with a tail that is 3 to 4 inches in length. The animal has five black stripes running lengthwise down the back along with two tan stripes. The head features two tan and two brown stripes down the side of the face. The chipmunks do not completely hibernate for the winter and survive on caches of food stored during the summer months. A female chipmunk mates twice a year -- in the spring and fall -- producing two to five offspring per litter.

Habitat

• The natural habitat of the eastern chipmunk are mature woodlands and wood lot edges. However, chipmunks also are found in suburban settings such as buildings, below patios and foundations and in outbuildings. Chipmunks are common in areas where bird feeders are present. The animal makes a burrow in the ground and can create many problems around homes and gardens. The damage to stairs, patios and buildings can be compromised if the burrows undermine the structural foundations of these areas with the burrows. The chipmunks will also eat the bulbs and seeds planted in gardens.

Control

• Chipmunks can be controlled by taking a few measures around the home and garden. Place small mesh cloth across to close entrances to areas chipmunks like to make its burrows. Put bird feeders at least 30 feet away from any structures and have a squirrel guard to keep the chipmunks away. In the garden, place hardware cloth over seeds and bulbs and then cover that with soil. Trapping is another method of getting rid of chipmunks. Live traps baited with peanut butter, seeds or raisins will attract the animal. Rat traps also can be employed to rid the area of the chipmunks.

Thirteen Lined Ground Squirrels

• The 13-lined ground squirrel is often mistaken for a chipmunk. The squirrel has 13 lines running lengthwise down its back. The 13-lined ground squirrel can also be distinguished from the eastern chipmunk by its yellowish hue and lack of facial stripes. The ground squirrels tail is not as bushy as a chipmunk and does not hold its tail vertically when it moves.