What can I feed chipmunks, and why do they love shiny objects?

What can I feed chipmunks, and why do they love shiny objects?

Chipmunks are adorable little creatures that often capture our attention with their quick movements and curious nature. If you’ve ever wondered what to feed them or why they seem so fascinated by shiny objects, you’re not alone. This article dives into the dietary preferences of chipmunks, their behavior, and the quirky connection between their love for food and shiny trinkets.


What Do Chipmunks Eat in the Wild?

Chipmunks are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant-based and animal-based foods. Their diet primarily consists of:

  1. Nuts and Seeds: Chipmunks are famous for their love of nuts like acorns, walnuts, and hazelnuts. They also enjoy seeds from sunflowers, pumpkins, and other plants.
  2. Fruits and Berries: Apples, strawberries, blueberries, and other fruits are a sweet treat for chipmunks.
  3. Vegetables: They occasionally nibble on vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn.
  4. Insects and Small Animals: Chipmunks supplement their diet with insects, worms, and even small frogs or bird eggs.
  5. Fungi: Mushrooms and other fungi are also part of their natural diet.

What Can You Safely Feed Chipmunks?

If you want to feed chipmunks in your backyard or while hiking, here are some safe options:

  1. Unsalted Nuts: Almonds, peanuts, and walnuts (without salt) are great choices.
  2. Fresh Fruits: Offer small pieces of apples, bananas, or berries.
  3. Vegetables: Carrot slices, peas, or corn kernels can be a hit.
  4. Seeds: Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are a favorite.
  5. Commercial Wildlife Food: Some pet stores sell specialized food for small wildlife.

Avoid feeding chipmunks processed foods, sugary snacks, or anything salty, as these can harm their health.


Why Are Chipmunks Obsessed with Shiny Objects?

Chipmunks are naturally curious and have a reputation for collecting shiny objects like coins, jewelry, or foil. This behavior is often linked to their instinct to gather and hoard food. Here’s why:

  1. Instinctual Hoarding: Chipmunks collect food and store it in their burrows for winter. Shiny objects might mimic the appearance of seeds or nuts, triggering their gathering instinct.
  2. Exploration: Chipmunks are curious by nature. Shiny objects catch their attention, and they might pick them up to investigate.
  3. Playfulness: Some experts believe chipmunks enjoy playing with shiny items, much like how other animals engage in playful behavior.

How to Attract Chipmunks Responsibly

If you want to observe chipmunks up close, here are some tips:

  1. Provide Food in Moderation: Offer small amounts of food to avoid overfeeding or dependency.
  2. Create a Safe Environment: Ensure your yard is free of predators and hazards.
  3. Use a Feeding Station: Place food in a designated area to keep chipmunks safe and your garden tidy.
  4. Respect Their Space: Observe from a distance to avoid stressing the animals.

FAQs About Chipmunks

Q: Can chipmunks eat bread?
A: While chipmunks might nibble on bread, it’s not a healthy option. Stick to natural foods like nuts, seeds, and fruits.

Q: Do chipmunks hibernate?
A: Chipmunks don’t truly hibernate but enter a state of torpor during winter, waking occasionally to eat from their stored food.

Q: Are chipmunks dangerous?
A: Chipmunks are generally harmless but can carry diseases. Avoid handling them and wash your hands after feeding.

Q: Why do chipmunks stuff their cheeks?
A: Chipmunks have cheek pouches to carry food back to their burrows for storage.

Q: Can I keep a chipmunk as a pet?
A: In most places, it’s illegal and unethical to keep chipmunks as pets. They thrive best in the wild.


Chipmunks are fascinating creatures with unique dietary habits and quirky behaviors. By understanding what to feed them and why they’re drawn to shiny objects, you can appreciate these little critters even more. Just remember to feed them responsibly and enjoy their antics from a respectful distance!