Birds in the chimney can be an unexpected and troublesome problem for homeowners. Chimney swift birds, for instance, are known to make chimneys their home during their breeding season.
This article provides step-by-step guidance on how to safely and humanely remove these uninvited guests from your chimney. Let’s dive into solving this feathered issue!
Key Takeaways
- Signs that birds are in your chimney include odd sounds, feathers or droppings around your fireplace, and nests in the flue.
- To get birds out of your chimney, you can use scare tactics like banging on the fireplace or using decoys. You can also shine a flashlight to encourage them to fly away from the light. Trapping methods such as one-way traps, live traps, catch poles, or hinged flaps can be used safely and humanely.
- If you’re unable to remove the birds on your own, it’s best to seek professional help from a chimney sweep or wildlife removal specialist.
- To prevent birds from entering your chimney in the future, close fireplace doors when not in use, seal any entry points with caulk or wire mesh, and consider installing a chimney cap or using humane deterrents like bird spikes or reflective objects.
Signs That Birds Are in Your Chimney
When you suspect birds are nesting in your chimney, there are several telltale signs to be aware of. The most common indicator is hearing odd noises coming from the chimney, such as chirping, fluttering, and scratching sounds, particularly noticeable during quiet times.
Another clue is the presence of feathers or bird droppings around your fireplace or on the roof near the chimney, often seen scattered around the hearth or on the roof. Birds often build nests in chimney flues as they offer a safe and secluded space, so you might be able to see bits of nesting materials sticking out of the chimney or notice debris falling into the fireplace.
Regular sightings of birds perched on or flying around the chimney stack can also indicate that they have made a home there. Additionally, a significant buildup of nesting materials can lead to a blockage in the chimney, noticeable due to a decrease in the efficiency of your fireplace or a smoky smell in the house.
If any of these signs are observed, it’s important to act promptly and contact a professional to safely remove the birds and their nest, and to consider installing a chimney cap to prevent future nesting.
How to Get Birds Out of Your Chimney
To safely and effectively remove birds from your chimney, there are several methods you can try, including scare tactics, using a flashlight to guide them out, trapping methods, or seeking professional help.
Scare Tactics
Scare tactics can help get birds out of your chimney. This method avoids harm but makes the place less cozy for the birds. You can bang on your fireplace with a broomstick. The noise and movement will make them fly away.
Use scare devices like fake owls or hawks, as well. Birds see these predators and want to leave fast! Secure these decoys near the chimney top for best results in scaring birds out of the chimney.
These methods are safe ways to deal with bird issues.
Using a Flashlight
Using a flashlight is a great tool for getting birds out of your chimney and can be an effective and non-invasive method. It can help you see if there are bird nests inside the dark space and can disorient the birds, making them uncomfortable and prompting them to leave their nesting area in the chimney. This approach is especially useful if the birds are not deeply nested or if there are fledglings that are capable of flying.
However, it’s important to use this method cautiously to avoid harming the birds. It’s best done during daylight hours when the birds are most active and likely to leave on their own. Additionally, ensure that the chimney flue is open so the birds can get out of the chimney themselves. After the birds have left, consider installing a chimney guard or cap to prevent future nesting.
Trapping Methods
To remove birds from your chimney, you can use different trapping methods. Here are some options for you to consider:
- One-way traps: Install a one-way trap at the top of your chimney to allow the birds to exit but prevent them from re-entering. This humane method ensures that the birds safely leave without harming them.
- Live traps: Set up live traps near the entrance of your chimney to catch the birds. Once trapped, you can relocate them to a more suitable habitat away from your home.
- Catch poles: Use a catch pole with a loop at the end to safely and gently capture the bird inside your chimney. Carefully guide it out and release it into an open area.
- Hinged flaps: Install hinged flaps over your chimney opening that allow birds to fly out but prevent them from getting back in. These flaps are designed to close once the bird exits, ensuring they cannot return.
Seeking Professional Help
If you’ve tried scaring, shining a flashlight, and trapping methods but still can’t get the birds out of your chimney, it might be time to seek professional help. An experienced chimney sweep or wildlife removal specialist will know how to safely remove the birds without causing harm.
They have the tools and knowledge needed to handle the situation appropriately. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you’re unable to resolve the issue on your own.
Preventing Birds from Entering Your Chimney
To prevent birds from entering your chimney, close fireplace doors when not in use, seal any entry points around the chimney, and consider using humane deterrents to discourage birds from nesting in your chimney.
Closing Fireplace Doors
Closing the fireplace doors is an effective way to prevent birds from entering your chimney. Keeping the doors closed creates a barrier that blocks access to your chimney. This simple step can help keep birds out and minimize the chances of them building nests or getting stuck in your chimney.
It’s important to remember to close the doors whenever your fireplace is not in use, as this will help maintain a bird-free environment in your home.
Seal Entry Points
To prevent birds from entering your chimney, you should seal any entry points. Here’s how:
- Inspect the exterior of your chimney for any cracks or gaps.
- Use a high-quality caulk to seal up any small openings.
- For larger gaps, use wire mesh or hardware cloth to cover the area and secure it with screws or nails.
- Make sure to cover both the top and bottom of the chimney to prevent birds from entering.
- Check for loose or damaged chimney caps and replace them if necessary.
- Install a chimney cap with mesh screens to keep birds out while still allowing smoke to escape.
Humane Deterrents
Here are some humane deterrents to prevent birds from entering your chimney:
- Install a chimney cap: A chimney cap with mesh or wire netting can keep birds out while allowing smoke to escape. It is a simple and effective way to bird-proof your chimney.
- Use bird spikes: Bird spikes can be installed on ledges or other surfaces near the chimney to deter birds from landing and nesting. They make it uncomfortable for birds without causing harm.
- Hang reflective objects: Hanging shiny objects, like old CDs or wind chimes, near the chimney can scare away birds. The reflection and movement will make them think twice about approaching your chimney.
- Use noise deterrents: Birds are sensitive to loud or unexpected sounds. You can use devices that emit high-frequency sounds, such as ultrasonic bird repellents or scarecrow noisemakers, to discourage them from entering the chimney.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you find birds in your chimney, there are steps you can take to get them out. Try using scare tactics like loud noises or flashing lights to encourage the birds to leave on their own.
If that doesn’t work, use a flashlight to guide them towards an open exit. You can also consider trapping methods or seek help from professionals. By taking preventative measures such as closing fireplace doors and sealing entry points, you can reduce the chances of birds returning to your chimney in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do birds get into the chimney?
Birds can enter chimneys through open flues or uncapped chimney tops, seeking shelter or nesting spots.
Answer: Birds can enter chimneys through open flues or uncapped chimney tops.
2. Are birds in the chimney dangerous?
Birds in the chimney can be a fire hazard as their nests and feathers are highly flammable.
Answer: Yes, birds in the chimney can be dangerous because they pose a fire hazard.
3. How do I safely remove birds from the chimney?
To safely remove birds from the chimney, use gentle methods like creating noise to scare them away, closing off other openings, and installing a bird guard on top of the chimney to prevent re-entry.
Answer: You can safely remove birds from the chimney by making noise to scare them away and taking preventative measures to keep them out.
4. Can I use fire or smoke to force birds out of the chimney?
No, using fire or smoke to force birds out is not recommended as it poses risks of harm to both you and the animals trapped inside.
Answer: No, it is not safe or recommended to use fire or smoke for removing birds from chimneys.
5. Should I contact professionals for help with bird removal in my chimney?
If you are unsure how to safely remove birds from your chimney or if you encounter any difficulties during DIY attempts, it’s best to contact professionals who specialize in wildlife removal services for assistance.
Answer: Yes, contacting professionals who specialize in wildlife removal services is advisable if you need help with bird removal from your chimney.
