Chipmunks vs. Squirrels: What’s Destroying Your Yard?

July 31, 2025

If you’ve noticed holes in your yard, dug-up flower beds, or chewed wires around your home, you’re not alone. Homeowners across New England constantly battle with backyard wildlife—but the real question is: Are chipmunks or squirrels to blame?

At Secured Environments Pest and Wildlife Services, we specialize in identifying and resolving wildlife problems quickly, humanely, and effectively. Today, we’re breaking down the differences between chipmunks and squirrels—so you can figure out what’s really causing damage on your property.

Spotting the Difference

Both chipmunks and squirrels are members of the rodent family, but their behaviors, appearances, and habits vary in ways that matter when it comes to pest control.

Chipmunks are small (usually 5–6 inches long), striped, and stay close to the ground. They’re notorious burrowers and are most often found digging near foundations, patios, and gardens.

Squirrels, on the other hand, are larger, bushier, and far more agile. They build nests high in trees, attics, and wall voids—and are known for chewing through fascia boards, insulation, and even electrical wiring.

Signs of Chipmunk Damage

If you’re finding small holes in your lawn or near your home's foundation, chipmunks are likely the culprits. Their burrowing can cause structural issues over time—especially when tunnels run underneath walkways, driveways, or porches. Gardeners also know chipmunks for digging up bulbs, munching on plants, and disturbing mulch.

You might not see chipmunks often during the day, but their signs are clear: shallow holes, soil displacement, and tunnels with no visible dirt piles.

Signs of Squirrel Damage

Squirrel activity is usually more obvious. You may hear scratching sounds in the attic, notice gnawed soffits or eaves, or spot nests made of leaves in the trees around your home. They often enter through small roof gaps or damaged vents and can cause serious damage to insulation, wiring, and even HVAC systems.

If bird feeders are being raided, garden vegetables are disappearing, or you’re hearing commotion overhead early in the morning, squirrels may be the source.

Why It Matters

While both animals may seem harmless or even cute, the damage they cause can be costly. Chipmunk burrows can weaken structures over time, while squirrel infestations inside homes create serious fire hazards due to gnawed wiring. Both can carry parasites, and their droppings can lead to contamination risks in and around the home.

What You Can Do

At Secured Environments, we start with a thorough inspection to identify the exact species involved, then create a custom wildlife control plan to remove the problem safely and prevent it from coming back.

Whether it's exclusion work, humane trapping, or long-term deterrents, our licensed wildlife experts have the tools and experience to protect your property year-round.

Let’s Take Back Your Yard

If you suspect chipmunks, squirrels, or any other wildlife is damaging your property, don’t wait. These issues only get worse with time—and New England’s changing seasons often push wildlife even closer to homes.

Call Secured Environments Pest and Wildlife Services today for a free consultation or inspection. We’ll help you identify the problem and take the right steps to restore safety, peace of mind, and control over your outdoor spaces.

< Go Back to Blog