Chipmunks are fascinating creatures that capture our attention with their adorable appearances and playful behaviors. As with any wildlife, there are often questions about their characteristics and habits.
If you’re a fan of chipmunks like us, you might have wondered: Do chipmunks have fleas?
Here’s the thing: They do!
But in this article, we’ll delve deeper into the causes and discuss their potential impact on us.
Do Chipmunks Carry Parasites or Diseases?
As a whole, rodents aren’t cuddly-looking or cute. But, chipmunks may be an exception.
Cartoon characters like Alvin and the Chipmunks have been portrayed as pleasant and lovable animals that can sing and talk. However, it’s important to remember that these depictions don’t represent real-life chipmunks.
Like other wildlife, they can pose potential dangers to humans. Here are some of the diseases that they might carry:
1 – Plague
When we think of the word “plague,” our minds often drift to images of the past with rats scurrying around.
However, what others may not know is that chipmunks can still pose a risk of spreading the plague to us. You can contract this disease by being bitten by fleas from infected chipmunks.
Furthermore, they carry a bacteria called Yersinia pestis. This happens when chipmunks get bitten by fleas.
Therefore, if a chipmunk bites you, there’s a chance of infection because their saliva contains pathogens.
2 – Lyme Disease
Did you know that in nature, white-footed mice are the primary reservoirs for Lyme disease bacteria? When ticks bite these mice, they’re likely to get infected.
This, in turn, puts humans at risk of contracting Lyme disease when bitten by these fleas.
Chipmunks, raccoons, and squirrels can also act as hosts for Lyme disease bacteria.
3 – Rickettsial Infections
Rickettsial infections are caused by a type of bacteria called rickettsia. This bacteria can sometimes be found in fleas that affect chipmunks.
When these infected fleas bite humans, they can transfer the bacteria into our bodies and cause illnesses.
Two common diseases caused by rickettsial infections are murine typhus and flea-borne spotted fever.
4 – Tularemia
Tularemia is a sickness caused by tiny bacteria called Francisella tularensis. This disease can be passed on by fleas that come from chipmunks and other animals.
Even though it doesn’t happen often, tularemia is a severe infection that can make you feel very sick.
It can affect your body parts, and you might have a fever and swollen lumps in your neck.
Factors That Make Chipmunks Prone to Flea Infestations
Here are some potential reasons that may make chipmunks prone to fleas:
1 – Frequent Ground-Dwelling Behavior
Chipmunks spend a lot of time on the ground, looking for food. This ground-dwelling behavior can increase their risk of coming into contact with fleas.
They may be present in the environment, such as in grasses, shrubs, or other animals’ burrows.
2 – Dense Fur
The thick fur of these chipmunks provides ideal hiding spots for fleas.
They can easily infest their fur and attach it to their skin. This leads to potential flea bites and infestations.
3 – Foraging on Plant Materials and Insects
Chipmunks feed on seeds, nuts, fruits, and other plant materials. But they may also consume insects and other small animals.
Foraging on plant materials and insects can expose chipmunks to fleas that may be carried by other animals.
4 – Burrow System
Characterized by multiple entrances and chambers, chipmunks construct complex burrow systems.
These burrows serve as nesting sites, food storage areas, and hibernation spots.
However, the intricate nature of these burrows can also provide hiding places for fleas.
5 – Social Behavior
The social behavior of chipmunks can increase their chances of being exposed to fleas.
It’s because they often share nests with other chipmunks, leading to close contact.
Tips for Preventing Chipmunk-Transmitted Flea Infestations
Here are some tips to prevent flea infestation at home:
1 – Seal Entry Points
Make sure to close any gaps or cracks in your house’s foundation. This includes walls and roofs that may serve as entry points for chipmunks or other rodents.
Also, fix any broken window screens by replacing or patching the torn mesh.
2 – Remove Food Sources
Keep your surroundings clean and tidy. Store food in airtight containers to prevent attracting chipmunks and other rodents that may carry fleas.
Make sure to sweep away any food crumbs from the floor.
3 – Eliminate Hiding Spots
Clear away any debris, clutter, or dense vegetation around your home that may provide hiding spots for chipmunks.
Additionally, keep empty boxes in a proper storage area so that they don’t end up being homes to these nosey creatures.
4 – Seek Professional Help
If you suspect a chipmunk or rodent infestation at your home, consider contacting a pest control professional. They can help you safely manage the problem.
A pest control expert will thoroughly inspect your property to assess the extent of the infestation. They’ll also identify entry points and nesting areas.
Final Thoughts
While chipmunks may be adorable and fascinating creatures, it’s important to remember that they can carry fleas. These pests can pose potential risks to humans.
Consider the preventive measures mentioned earlier to avoid chipmunk-transmitted flea infestation.
By understanding and taking appropriate precautions, we can coexist safely with chipmunks without compromising our health.
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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