I netted mine last year and they still disappeared. I found a chipmunk under the netting eating merrily away. This year, I didn't even bother netting them because small rodents aren't deterred (especially those who burrow). So, I watched them go bye-bye over a period of two weeks.......just the ripe ones until they were all gone. As far as my fruit crops are concerned, I've found the best way for we humans to have some is to plant far more than we ever intend on using. That way the critters may leave enough for us to steal.

Virginia:

Agree with Calliope that chipmunks are most likely your villain. I seem the on my blueberries, and the only control I have is my little cat Tuffy. She makes some of them pay dearly, but occasionally brings them into the house still fully capable, where they zoom around and bounce off the walls to the total consternation of my beloved spouse. Thus, I am instructed not to let Tuffy in with a chipmunk at all costs.

There are many chipmunks around this season. Must have been a good hatch.

Don Yellman, Great Falls, VA

LOL! My husband had just mentioned yesterday that we hadn't seen the usual family of chipmunks around the stone walls by the flower beds. Now we know where they've gone! Thanks for solving the mystery. Pity my husband is allergic to cats.

Virginia in Virginia

Actually, my schnauzer is a far worse threat to our chipmunks than our barn cat. Well, he used to be. He is now pushing sixteen and would if he could. Seriously, though, a terrier's presence is not welcome in chipmunk world.

Hmmm, now there's a dilemma. Our neighbors, along with the chickens, cats and goats, also have a Boston terrier, but at the moment all she seems to want to do is clear us off our own property. Don't think she considers chipmunks part of her job description.

Virginia in Virginia