Repellents:
* Peppermint Oil: The strong smell of peppermint is often disliked by chipmunks. You can dilute peppermint oil with water and spray it around areas you want to deter them from, or use peppermint-scented sachets or dryer sheets.
* Cayenne Pepper: Like peppermint, the spicy scent of cayenne pepper can be off-putting to chipmunks. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around areas you want to protect, but be cautious around pets and children as it can irritate their eyes and skin.
* Garlic: The strong odor of garlic can also deter chipmunks. You can plant garlic near areas you want to protect, or make a garlic spray by simmering garlic cloves in water and spraying the mixture around.
* Citrus: The strong scent of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons can be unpleasant for chipmunks. You can use citrus peels as a natural repellent, or make a citrus spray by mixing citrus peels with water and spraying the mixture around.
* Commercial Repellents: There are several commercial repellents available that contain scents designed to deter chipmunks. These often include a combination of scents like peppermint, garlic, and chili pepper.
Important things to note:
* No scent is guaranteed to work: Every chipmunk is different, and some may be more sensitive to certain smells than others.
* Frequent application is key: The scents will fade over time, so you need to reapply them regularly to keep them effective.
* Use natural scents sparingly: While natural scents are generally safer than chemical repellents, they can still be irritating to pets and children.
* Combine with other deterrents: Using scents in conjunction with other deterrent methods like physical barriers, traps, and habitat modification is often more effective.
Remember to always consult with a pest control professional for the most effective and safe solution for your situation.