Do you need a license to trap and release chipmunks in Illinois?
We just got a dog and he’s discovered chipmunks in our backyard. He’s already killed 4 and mortally wounded 1. I had to put that poor little critter to sleep myself. That prompted me to get a wildlife exterminator who charged $95 for an inspection and $35 per chipmunk captured. I decided to cancel that service and buy a trap myself and do it myself. The exterminator said I’d need a license to trap them and if I got caught releasing them into a nearby preserve I could get fined. $1,000. I told my story to the guy at the license desk at a hunting store nearby and he said I didn’t need it if I was just catching them to protect my house. I would if I was making money selling the pelts. But he wasn’t completely sure and gave me a big brochure to read to try and find my answer. I’m lazy so I came here. Anybody know for sure?
probably not… i mean they are just chipmunks. if it were like deer or bears of some exotic bird i think it would be a different story, but dont worry about it. do not get the exterminator… waay too much to pay. if you want to kill them you could set up mouse traps (they work well on chipmunks; my friend used them in her garden) in the yard…those work but make sure you and your dog stay away from them.
Im not sure but you can buy chipmunk traps online on amazon.
And there are instructions on how to trap them by yourself:
so im thinking that that exterminator was lying to you and just wanted you to use his service instead of doing it yourself. But im really not sure… you might just want to research this on google.
Hi John
Dont go to the exterminators, those guys will kill the chipmunks and it seems like thats no better than your dog doing it! Especially as they are going to rob you of money to do it. Trapping them is a dodgy idea as if you take a mother the babies will starve to death in the nest. Not pleasant for them and or the mother.
You may actually be surprised to hear that you will get a better response from wildlife rehabilitators in your area. They will be happy to advise you and may help you out for free (maybe make a donation!) with catching, removing and finding a new place for the the little chipmunks to live. This has got to be better than killing the poor little things : ) Just explain that your dog is getting to them and that you dont want the exterminators to come and kill them. They will be happy to help you… and happy you care about the chipmunks. This has got to be the best solution – for you – your dog – the chipmunks and your karma! ; )
Heres a wildlife place in your area i found with a quick google search:
And heres a page with a whole list of people in your area: They will be able to give the most useful knowledgable advise. Hope this helps!
Awww )”: please dont kill Alvin!! D: