Who removes animals from chimneys? – No 1 [Ultimate Guide 2023]

Who removes animals from chimneys? Wildlife removal professionals or animal control experts are typically responsible for removing animals from chimneys. These specialists are trained to safely and humanely handle a variety of animals, including birds, squirrels, raccoons, bats, and more. They use methods that consider the welfare of the animals and adhere to local regulations governing wildlife removal. Hiring experienced professionals ensures the safe removal of the animals and the prevention of further chimney blockages or damage.

Signs of Animals in Your Chimney

Identifying signs of animals in your chimney is essential for addressing the issue promptly. Here are common indicators of animal presence in your chimney:

1. Noises: Unusual sounds, such as scratching, scurrying, chirping, or vocalizations, emanating from the chimney are a primary sign of animal activity.
2. Foul Odors: The smell of animal waste, nesting materials, or decaying animals can waft into your home through the fireplace or vents.
3. Debris or Nesting Materials: If you notice debris, twigs, leaves, or nesting materials falling into your fireplace or hearth, it’s a strong indicator of animal activity.
4. Visible Animals: On occasion, you might see animals, their eyes or tails peeking out of the chimney when looking up from the fireplace.
5. Stuck Damper: A damper that suddenly becomes difficult to open or close may be obstructed by an animal or its nest.
6. Smoke Backflow: Animals or their nests can block the flue, causing smoke to return to your home when you light a fire.
7. Exterior Signs: Observe the exterior of your chimney for animal entry points, like openings or loose bricks. Claw marks on the chimney’s surface can also indicate animal activity.
8. Roof Damage: Animals may damage your roof while attempting to access the chimney. Look for claw marks, chewed or torn shingles, or other signs of roof disturbance.
9. Droppings: Animal droppings, often found in the fireplace, maybe a sign of their presence. These droppings can carry diseases and should be handled with care.
10. Frequent Pest Activity: If your home has a history of recurring pest issues, it may increase the likelihood of animals seeking refuge in your chimney.

Guide To Safe Animal Removal From Your Chimney

1. Identification: Knowing the type of animal in your chimney is crucial for determining the most effective removal strategy. Different animals may require different approaches. For example, birds can often fly out, while mammals like squirrels or raccoons may need an exit provided.
2. Safety First: Always prioritize safety for both yourself and the animals. Most wild animals can carry diseases or become aggressive if they feel threatened. Avoid any direct contact and keep children and pets away from the area to prevent accidents.
3. Check Local Regulations: Wildlife regulations can vary by location, and some species may be protected by law. Before attempting removal, consult local authorities or a licensed wildlife removal service to ensure you comply with legal and ethical standards.
4. Assess the Situation: Determine whether the animals are trapped in the chimney or if they can move up and down freely. If trapped, proceed cautiously, as trapped animals may panic and become more challenging.
5. Create an Exit: For trapped animals, provide a means of escape. Lowering a sturdy rope or a thick branch down the chimney gives them a path to climb out. Make sure the escape route is secure and doesn’t pose a risk to the animals.
6. Observe Quietly: After creating an exit, step back and allow the animals time to leave the chimney alone. Animals can be susceptible to human presence, and your patience is vital. It may take some time for them to feel safe enough to leave.
7. Secure the Chimney: Once the animals have exited, preventing future intrusions is essential. Install a chimney cap or mesh to cover the chimney opening securely. This acts as a barrier to keeping animals out while allowing proper ventilation.
8. Clean and Inspect: After removal, it’s a good practice to have a professional chimney sweep inspect the chimney for any damage. Animals can leave behind droppings and nesting materials, potentially damaging the chimney structure. Cleaning and addressing any issues promptly is crucial for the chimney’s integrity.
9. Prevent Future Intrusions: To ensure your chimney remains wildlife-free, consider installing a chimney cap or screen. Regularly inspect and maintain the cap to ensure it effectively keeps animals out.
10. Consider Professionals: If you need more certainty or are comfortable with any step of this process, hiring a licensed wildlife removal service is wise. They have the experience, knowledge, and equipment to handle animal removal safely and under local regulations.

Spring Time Means Animal Removal for Chimneys

Spring is a season of renewal and growth. Still, it can also be a time for animal removal for homeowners with chimneys. Many animals, particularly birds and small mammals seek out chimneys as potential nesting sites during the spring. This natural behaviour can lead to unwanted guests in your chimney, creating a need for responsible and humane animal removal.

The arrival of spring signifies the breeding season for numerous species of wildlife. Birds, such as chimney swifts and starlings, view chimneys as ideal locations to construct their nests and raise their young. Similarly, squirrels and raccoons may see chimneys as sheltered spaces to birth and care for their offspring. While these animals may mean no harm, their presence in your chimney can lead to various issues, from noisy disturbances to potential fire hazards caused by nests blocking the flue.

Effective animal removal from chimneys during springtime necessitates awareness, patience, and care. Here are some crucial steps to consider:

1. Awareness: Recognizing the signs of animal intrusion is vital. Unusual sounds or chirping from the chimney, debris falling into the fireplace, or foul odours can indicate unwelcome visitors.
2. Prevention: Chimney caps or screens are essential for preventing animals from entering the chimney in the first place. Installing these devices is a proactive measure to keep your chimney wildlife-free.
3. Humane Removal: If animals have already taken up residence, it’s crucial to address their removal humanely. Attempting to smoke them out or harm them in any way is not only inhumane but may also be illegal in many places.
4. Consult Professionals: Consider seeking the assistance of wildlife removal professionals experienced in safely and responsibly relocating animals. They can evaluate the situation, ensure no dependent young are left behind, and safely remove the animals.
5. Sealing After Removal: Once the animals are removed, it’s essential to seal your chimney with a cap or screen to prevent future intrusions. This proactive step will save you from dealing with the same issue the following spring.