Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Eastern Chipmunk

Photos / Blue Ridge Wildlife Center

Wildlife Rehabilitation takes a village!

This young Eastern Chipmunk was found in the middle of a roadway by itself, appearing quiet and sad. While it’s not an infant, this youngster would still be with mom at this age and is too young to take care of itself.

Upon examination, no injuries were found but this patient was obviously dehydrated. Thankfully, after being warmed up and rehydrated, this chipmunk perked right up!

This patient still needs a couple of weeks before its old enough to be on its own. Luckily, we were able to transfer her to Valley Wildlife Care, Inc. of Virginia who are caring for a chipmunk of similar age!

These two will be raised and released together when they are ready, with plenty of time to start preparing for winter.

Socializing is an important part of growing up for many of our young patients. We are fortunate to have a great network of wildlife rehabilitators across Virginia we can reach out to to find patients who are the same age and species.

Wildlife Rehabilitation really does take a village!

The Eastern Chipmunk is the only chipmunk species found in our area and they are an important part of our ecosystem. They disperse seeds from the plants and fungi they feed on and are an important food source for hawks, foxes, bobcats, owls, and more. Their impressive burrows, that they often live in for their entire life, also help to aerate and recycle soil!

Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.