How to get animals out of the chimney

There is a question that very many homeowners ask from time to time and it has to do with removal of wild animals in the chimneys. This is a very tricky task especially when the animal is stuck and is not able to get out without assistance. Lighting a fire in the chimney only makes the matter worse as the animal can suffocate and possibly die within the chimney. It is also not a very humane thing to do.



Birds
They love nesting inside the chimney due to the protection that they enjoy away from all kinds of predators. It is also a lot warmer when spring starts because there is warm air coming from the house and into the flue. A common bird that just loves the chimney is the chimney swift. When birds build nests within the chimney, they actually pose a fire hazard due to the restriction of the flow of gasses.

For the removal of birds, you will have to wait until a brood leaves the nest and then have the chimney cleaned out and then capped. It is unlawful to remove the birds while they nest.

Bats
Bats adore the dark spaces and therefore will use the chimney in many cases. They also come with rabies so one should never try to handle the animal unless they are experts in their removal. Keeping them out of a chimney is a difficult thing because they can gain entry through very small spaces. You can use one way elimination chambers and then when they have all left, seal out the spaces you can also install a damper and a cap.

Squirrels
In some cases, squirrels can build homes within the chimneys. The nests are tightly packed and hard to remove. This may take a lot of hours. You should use a heavy stainless steel chimney cover that you can get from the chimney sweep. One way elimination tunnels can also be applied so as to get them out.

If you are not conversant with the above animals or nay other wild animals in the chimney, contact a professional who will know exactly how to handle the whole issue.

Lighting a fire in the chimney only makes the matter not as good as the animal knows how to suffocate as well as maybe die within the chimney. It is also not a very humane thing to do. So avoid it and choose the right way!

Go back to the How to get rid of wildlife home page.

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