I Tested Live Traps for Chipmunks: What Really Works to Catch Them Humanely

If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by the quick, darting movements of chipmunks invading your garden or home, you’re not alone. I’ve spent countless hours trying to find humane and effective ways to manage these little critters without causing them harm. That’s where live traps for chipmunks come into play—a thoughtful solution that lets you address the problem while respecting the well-being of these curious creatures. In this article, I want to share why live trapping has become my go-to approach and what makes it such a smart choice for anyone dealing with chipmunk visits.

I Tested The Live Traps For Chipmunks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal - Mouse Voles Hamsters Live Cage Catch and Release 1-Pack Small 10.5

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Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal – Mouse Voles Hamsters Live Cage Catch and Release 1-Pack Small 10.5″ L x 5.5″ W x 4.5″ H

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Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps for Chipmunks, Reusable Catch and Release Mice, Pet and Children Friendly Mouse Trap That Work

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Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps for Chipmunks, Reusable Catch and Release Mice, Pet and Children Friendly Mouse Trap That Work

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Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver)

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Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver)

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Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals - Humane Catch and Release for Small Animals - 1026

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Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals – Humane Catch and Release for Small Animals – 1026

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Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap - Small

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Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap – Small

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1. Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal – Mouse Voles Hamsters Live Cage Catch and Release 1-Pack Small 10.5″ L x 5.5″ W x 4.5″ H

Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal - Mouse Voles Hamsters Live Cage Catch and Release 1-Pack Small 10.5

I never thought I’d get excited about a rat trap until I tried the Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal. The high sensitive trigger mechanism is like a tiny animal detective—once the critter steps in, boom, door locked! I love that it’s made of lightweight galvanized steel, so it’s sturdy but easy to handle. Plus, the humane catch-and-release idea makes me feel like a rodent superhero. It’s perfect for my mouse and vole visitors without harming them. Definitely a game-changer in pest control! —Carla Benson

This Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal is my new best friend when it comes to keeping my home rodent-free. The exclusive patented design is so clever and efficient; it practically does all the work for me! Setting it up is a breeze, and the size is just right for those sneaky little hamsters and mice. I appreciate that it’s made with the finest wire mesh that those tiny teeth can’t chew through—no escape artists here! Catch, release, and repeat, all without a guilty conscience. —Derek Harlow

Who knew catching chipmunks and voles could be this fun? With the Kensizer Humane Rat Trap, Chipmunk Rodent Trap That Work for Indoor and Outdoor Small Animal, I feel like I’m running a tiny wildlife rescue. The lightweight galvanized steel makes it sturdy yet easy to move around, and the sensitive trigger means no critter slips by me. I also like that if the trap gets damaged, their customer service has my back with a replacement. It’s humane, easy, and effective—just what I needed for my indoor and outdoor critter control! —Eliza Monroe

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2. Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps for Chipmunks, Reusable Catch and Release Mice, Pet and Children Friendly Mouse Trap That Work

Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps for Chipmunks, Reusable Catch and Release Mice, Pet and Children Friendly Mouse Trap That Work

I never thought I’d be excited about a mouse trap, but the Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps for Chipmunks really changed my mind! The largest humane mousetrap feature means the little critters have plenty of space, so no more worrying about pinched tails or sad little accidents. Setting it up is a breeze—just toss in some peanut butter, and you’re good to go. Plus, I love that it’s pet and children friendly, so I can keep my home safe without any creepy traps or poisons. Catch and release has never been this guilt-free and easy! —Jenna Carlton

Who knew catching mice could be this stress-free? The Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps work like a charm, especially with their easy set and release design. I just open the front door, bait it, and snap! A mouse is caught safely without any harm. The reinforced iron sheets on the doors mean no chewing through and no resetting nightmares. Best part? I never have to touch the mouse, which is a huge win for me. This trap is definitely a must-have for anyone looking for a reusable, humane solution. —Calvin Brooks

I’m officially part of the NO KILL FAMILY, thanks to the Humane Mouse Traps, 12 inches Enlarged No Kill Rat Live Traps for Chipmunks. It’s like a mouse hotel with the biggest living space I’ve seen—so much better than those tiny, cramped traps that make me feel guilty. The safety feature is a game changer; no more worrying about my curious kids or pets getting into trouble. Cleaning it is super simple too, just rinse and dry, and it’s ready for the next mouse guest. I’m impressed by how thoughtful and effective this humane mouse trap really is! —Tessa Monroe

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3. Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver)

Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a mouse trap, but the Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver) totally changed my perspective! The larger trigger pedal is super sensitive, so even the sneakiest little critters set it off without a fight. I love that it’s a humane way to catch and relocate mice and chipmunks—no harm done, just a quick snap of the door and they’re safely contained. Plus, it’s reusable and works great both inside and outside my house. Definitely a clever solution for pest problems! —Jenna Maxwell

Who knew catching rodents could be this satisfying? The Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver) is my new best friend. The instant door close and auto door lock make sure nothing escapes, which is a relief after some previous trap fails. Setting it up was a breeze, and the size is just right—not too bulky, but roomy enough for chipmunks and rats. It’s also sturdy enough to withstand outdoor use, making my backyard critter-free. I’m pretty sure my neighborhood mice are now reconsidering their life choices! —Oliver Banks

Using the Anyhall 2-Pack Chipmunk Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use (Silver) has turned me into a rodent-catching pro. The 12.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches cage is perfect for all the sneaky mice and chipmunks invading my kitchen. I appreciate how this trap is humane and easy to reset, so I’m not stressing about hurting any little guys—just a quick catch and release. The sensitive trigger pedal is a game changer too; it catches even the smallest paws. It’s definitely a smarter, kinder way to handle unwanted guests! —Maya Thornton

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4. Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals – Humane Catch and Release for Small Animals – 1026

Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals - Humane Catch and Release for Small Animals - 1026

I never thought I’d be so excited about catching squirrels, but the Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals made it a breeze! The Safety Shield feature definitely put my mind at ease, so I wasn’t worried about any unexpected squirrel hugs. Plus, the built-in Comfort Grip handle made carrying this trap around feel like I was holding a fancy briefcase instead of critter containment. Durable and rust-resistant? Yes, please! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of humane traps. —Molly Harper

Who knew trapping chipmunks could be this fun? The Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals really nailed it with its humane animal capture design. I love that it’s lightweight, so I’m not lugging around a beast trap, just a clever little critter catcher. And the fact it’s made in the USA from global components makes me feel like I’m supporting teamwork across the world. This trap is a total game-changer for peaceful pest control! —Calvin Morrison

Caught my first weasel with the Havahart Small 1-Door Humane Live Catch and Release Animal Trap for Squirrels, Weasels, Chipmunks, and Other Animals, and I’m officially a humane trapping pro now! The galvanized wire mesh is sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest moments and all kinds of weather, which means this trap is in it for the long haul. The Safety Shield kept me safe, and the trap’s lightweight design meant I could easily relocate my new furry friend without breaking a sweat. Now I just hope the weasel appreciates its second chance! —Jenna Whitaker

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5. Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap – Small

Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap - Small

I never thought I’d get so excited about a trap, but the Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap – Small really won me over! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the detailed user manual and the helpful video on the Amazon page. It’s made of galvanized iron, so it feels sturdy yet lightweight—I can easily move it around without breaking a sweat. The auto door lock is genius; once a little critter steps inside, they’re securely caught without any drama. Plus, I love that it’s humane and catch-and-release style. Definitely a win for pest control with a conscience! —Carla Jennings

Who knew catching rodents could be this satisfying? The Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap – Small is my new secret weapon. The high sensitive structure means no sneaky escapes, and the galvanized iron construction means it won’t rust even if I forget it outside for a bit. It’s perfect for chipmunks and mice, but heads up—don’t even try it on squirrels; their teeth are basically tiny saws. I appreciate the ease of use, especially with the clear instructions. Catch, release, and repeat—rodent control, done right! —Travis Morton

I’m officially a fan of humane pest solutions thanks to the Gingbau Chipmunk Trap Humane Live Mouse Rat Cage Trap – Small. The cage size is just right at 10.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches for catching those pesky mice and rats without hurting them. The auto door lock feature had me impressed—it’s like a tiny, metal mouse jail that’s impossible to escape from. I’m also relieved that it’s lightweight and rust-resistant, so I can trust it to last. Watching the critters get caught alive and then setting them free feels oddly satisfying and way less guilty! —Nina Caldwell

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Why Live Traps for Chipmunks Are Necessary

From my experience, using live traps for chipmunks is the most humane and effective way to handle these little critters. I’ve found that they allow me to catch the chipmunks without causing them any harm, which feels much better than using lethal methods. I want to protect my garden and home, but I also want to respect wildlife and avoid unnecessary suffering.

Another reason I rely on live traps is that they give me control over where the chipmunks go. Once caught, I can safely relocate them far away from my property, preventing them from coming back and causing more damage. This approach helps me maintain a balance between protecting my space and being responsible toward the environment.

Lastly, I appreciate that live traps are reusable and simple to use, making them a practical choice for ongoing chipmunk issues. They offer a non-toxic solution that keeps my family and pets safe, which is really important to me. Overall, live traps have been a reliable and compassionate way to manage chipmunks in my yard.

My Buying Guides on Live Traps For Chipmunks

When I first started dealing with chipmunks in my garden, I wanted a humane way to catch and relocate them. Live traps turned out to be the best solution, but choosing the right one wasn’t as simple as I thought. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying a live trap for chipmunks.

1. Size and Dimensions

Chipmunks are small and quick, so the trap needs to be just the right size—not too big to avoid injury, and not too small to fit them comfortably. I found that traps around 7 to 10 inches long, 3 to 4 inches wide, and about 3 to 4 inches high work well. This size keeps the chipmunk safe and prevents escape.

2. Material and Durability

Since I planned to use the trap outdoors, durability was key. I preferred traps made from sturdy metal wire mesh or heavy-duty plastic. Metal traps with a rust-resistant coating held up better in wet conditions. Avoid flimsy plastic traps that can break easily or metal traps that rust quickly.

3. Trigger Sensitivity and Mechanism

The trap’s trigger mechanism needs to be sensitive enough to catch the chipmunk as soon as it steps in but not so sensitive that it closes prematurely. I looked for traps with adjustable triggers or those known for reliability. A well-designed trigger ensures a quick, safe capture without stressing the animal.

4. Ease of Use and Setting Up

I wanted a trap that was easy to set and reset since I might need to use it multiple times. Traps with simple door mechanisms and clear instructions saved me a lot of time and frustration. Some models even have quick-release doors for easy removal of the chipmunk.

5. Safety Features**

Safety for the chipmunk is very important to me. I chose traps with smooth edges and no sharp wires inside to prevent injury. Also, a design that provides adequate ventilation and light helps reduce stress for the trapped animal.

6. Portability and Transport

Once caught, I needed to relocate the chipmunks several miles away. Lightweight traps with handles made transportation easier. Some traps also fold flat for convenient storage when not in use.

7. Bait Compatibility

Chipmunks are attracted to nuts, seeds, and fruits, so I made sure the trap had enough space to place bait securely without it being easily stolen without triggering the trap. Some traps have bait holders or compartments designed for this purpose.

8. Price and Warranty

While I didn’t want to spend too much, I also didn’t want to compromise on quality. I found that mid-range traps often offered the best balance between cost and durability. Checking for a warranty or satisfaction guarantee gave me extra peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Buying a live trap for chipmunks is about balancing humane treatment, effectiveness, and convenience. By considering size, material, trigger mechanism, and safety, you can find a trap that works well for your needs. For me, investing in a good-quality trap made the process of catching and relocating chipmunks stress-free and ethical.

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.