Moving your chipmunks

It has been illegal since 2016 to buy or sell chipmunks as pets. If you bought or rescued a pet chipmunk before 2016 you can keep them for the rest of their natural life.

Moving your chipmunks can be stressful for them, so in an ideal world, you should try to avoid transporting them unless it's necessary.

If you're considering moving your chipmunks because you're going away, it's better to find someone to care for them in your home, as this will be less stressful than moving them. If it's unavoidable, read on to find out how to move your chipmunks without upsetting them.

Handling your chipmunks

Chipmunks are agile and can be difficult to catch! When moving your pets, a calm approach is always best. Chasing them around the enclosure to catch them will only cause them stress. To capture your chipmunks ready to move them, you can try:

  • Using padded nets
  • Using sliding doors to close the nest box when they go into it
  • Setting a live-catch squirrel trap

Never pick your chipmunks up by their tail - instead, gently pick them up using cupped hands. It's a good idea to wear strong gloves when handling them to protect yourself from being bitten.

Help your chipmunks feel safe when they're on the move

You can help your chipmunks feel comfortable and safe when they're on the move by adding familiar-smelling things into their carriers and new environments, such as used bedding or toys. You should also give them some moist fruits and seeds to last the whole length of the journey.

The law on moving Siberian chipmunks

Remember, under the EU Invasive Alien Species Regulation, Siberian chipmunks can only be transported for animal welfare reasons, such as when they are taken to a vet, boarding establishment or if you're moving house. It's important that your pets are transported securely and aren't allowed to escape. 

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