Here's why:
* Appearance: Chipmunks share many physical characteristics with squirrels, including a bushy tail and a similar body shape.
* Nocturnal Activity: While chipmunks are primarily active during the day, they can become more nocturnal in areas with heavy human activity or where food is scarce. This means they might be seen scavenging for food at night, especially when attracted to bird feeders.
* Bird Food Preference: Chipmunks are omnivores and known to enjoy seeds, nuts, and fruits, which are all common ingredients in birdseed mixes.
While squirrels can also be nocturnal, they are less likely to be as active at night as chipmunks, particularly if they have a plentiful supply of food sources.
Other possibilities:
* Rats: While not exactly chipmunk-like in appearance, rats are nocturnal rodents that are attracted to birdseed and can be quite adept at climbing.
* Mice: Similar to rats, mice are small, nocturnal rodents that can be attracted to bird feeders.
To confirm the identity of the creature, observe its size, tail length, and any distinctive markings. If possible, take a photograph to help you identify it further.