Yeah, they sure are strong and clever. My birdfeeders have so far survived 5 years or so with no raccoon damage, I think because I have them hanging from tall metal poles. I keep the poles greased up thoroughly using Super Lube and an old toothbrush. Only takes a few minutes and keeps both squirrels and raccoons from being able to access the feeders.
So far, so good!
Although . . somebody's being a real pig about eating up all the peanut suet lately. I thought at first the squirrels were jumping down from the bamboo, so cut away the overhanging branches, plus put some extra grease on the pole but that didn't stop the suet from disappearing - 2 cakes in 4 days, gone! So I watched carefully, and turns out it is the hoarde of blue jays plus the red-bellied woodpeckers that are consuming more than their share. I started putting out just one cake at a time, and that slowed it down a bit.
The grackles are known to be in my area all year but I only seem to see them in huge flocks during the winter. You can definitely hear them coming as they cover the sky flying in sync from tree to tree. I'm always amazed to watch them fly together like a huge wave. And, they eat the acorns and bugs. Both good things around here.
Okay, they're probably a pest for you. But chipmunks are so cute!!!! I, too, have field mice in the garage. All of my birdseed is stored in galvanized trash cans with snug lids. That keeps the mice out. But I have to keep the garage doors closed to prevent the raccoons from entering because they're smart enough and strong enough to remove the lids. I'm also careful never to leave my keys in the car for fear the coons would start it and go on a joyride. 
But love the names Chip & Dale. 
Yes, Lin, it's the duranta. This shrub has been the main attraction lately for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It must be a good nectar producer.
