Chipmunks are highly active animals that need spacious and stimulating housing. Despite being
naturally ground-dwelling, they are excellent climbers and in the wild spend vast amounts of time
foraging in small trees and shrubs. Males tend to live up to five years on average whilst females tend
to live up to eight years or longer. Chipmunks can become hand tame, although this takes great
patience, but can resent handling.
They are social animals and enjoy each others company, however males will usually fight. On
average the lifespan for males is between 2 and 5 years and 6 years plus for females.
A healthy chipmunk should be:
Bright and alert.
No signs of discharge ears, mouth or nose.
A clean anal area.
A glossy coat with no sores on the skin and no bald patches.
Able to move around the cage easily.
Housing
it is essential to have a large cage. Although there are several types designed for chipmunks aviaries
(either indoor or outdoor) are preferable. The housing must be completely escape proof with a mesh
size no bigger than about 25 x 25 mm. Aviaries should have a double door and solid base or one lined
with metal mesh. Any wooden framing should be similarly protected. If kept indoors, the cage should
be placed out of draughts and in a quiet room away from televisions and other similar electrical
equipment as these emit sounds that whilst not audible to the human ear may cause the animals
distress. A chipmunk enclosure must be furnished with an interesting selection of natural non-toxic
pipes, perches, wood branches and shelves. Chipmunks become bored easily so it is worthwhile
changing or moving cage contents on a regular basis. Nest boxes (one or more) should be provided
with an entrance hole of 50 to 65 mm diameter. Those sold for birds like cockatiels are ideal.
Chipmunks are hoarders of food so boxes should be checked regularly for stale or uneaten fresh
food. Soft paper bedding or hay should be
provided. Outdoor aviaries should have a dry protected area. Smaller cages will need to be cleaned
and disinfected on a regular weekly basis as will any perches, branches or other decorations.
Feeding and Water
Several diets available that are formulated for chipmunks, normally a mixture of cereals, nuts, dried
fruit etc. Dry cat or dog food can also be fed in moderation. A healthy and varied diet is essential and
so hard fruit and vegetables like apples, broccoli, carrots and cauliflower are suitable. Clean water
should be available at all times provided in a drinking bottle. Always clean dishes and water bottles
daily removing and replacing any uneaten food. Vitamin drops that are added to the water are useful
and mineral stones or wooden chew toys will help keep your chipmunk s teeth trim
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Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:03 pm
