Pet Chipmunks: Think Hard Before You Buy

Chipmunks look like the perfect small pet, but they're fast, nervous, solitary rodents that need a very large, aviary-style enclosure and rarely enjoy being handled. In Great Britain and the EU, Siberian chipmunks are listed as an invasive species: existing pets can be kept for life, but you can't buy, breed or sell them any more. Elsewhere, rules vary. For most people, a rat or degu makes a far better pet.

Fast, striped and built to run and climb, not to be held.

What a Chipmunk Needs

Space: a very large, tall enclosure, often an aviary-style walk-in structure, with branches, nest boxes and places to dig. Care guides commonly suggest at least 6 feet (1.8 m) tall for one animal, and many keepers house them outdoors in a sheltered aviary.
Escape-proofing: chipmunks are quick and climb well; double doors help.
Company: chipmunks are generally solitary as adults and can fight. The RSPCA notes experts are still learning how best to care for them.
Handling: they're best observed rather than cuddled, and they don't suit young children.

The Law

Great Britain: the Siberian chipmunk is a listed invasive alien species. If you had yours as a pet before it was listed, you can keep it for life in secure containment, but you must not breed, sell, exchange or release it. You can give it to someone else or a rescue. See the invasive species guidance on gov.uk.
European Union: Siberian chipmunks are on the EU invasive species list, with similar limits.
United States and elsewhere: chipmunks are native wildlife in parts of North America, and wild chipmunks shouldn't be taken as pets. Rules on keeping chipmunks differ by state and country, so check with your state wildlife agency or national authority.

Never release a chipmunk outside. Escaped chipmunks have set up wild populations in parts of Europe.

Better Choices for Most Homes

Degus: sociable, day-active and chatty.
Rats: clever, affectionate and trainable.
Gerbils: busy burrowers that are fun to watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

The law comes up most.

Can I buy a chipmunk in the UK?

No. Siberian chipmunks are a listed invasive species in Great Britain, so they can't be bought, bred or sold. Existing pets can be kept for life.

Do chipmunks make good pets?

For most homes, no. They need very large enclosures, are nervous and fast, and rarely enjoy handling.

Can two chipmunks live together?

Adults are generally solitary and can fight, so many keepers house them separately.

Can I keep a wild chipmunk I found?

No. Wild chipmunks are wildlife. If one is injured, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.

What's a better small pet than a chipmunk?

Degus, rats or gerbils are more suited to life as pets and enjoy more interaction.