Birds nesting in chimneys can be a common problem for homeowners, especially during nesting season (typically spring and early summer). Not only is it disruptive due to the chirping and potential mess, but it can also be a fire hazard and potentially trap the birds inside, leading to their demise. Removing birds from a chimney requires a delicate approach, prioritizing the safety of the birds and yourself. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions on how to safely and humanely get birds out of your chimney. Remember, it’s crucial to be patient and to check local laws regarding bird removal, as some species are protected.
**Understanding the Problem**
Before attempting to remove birds, it’s essential to understand the situation:
* **Species Identification:** If possible, try to identify the bird species nesting in your chimney. This is helpful for understanding their nesting habits and any legal protections they might have. Common chimney nesters include chimney swifts, starlings, and house sparrows.
* **Nest Stage:** Determine the stage of nesting. Are there eggs, young birds, or just an empty nest? This significantly impacts your approach. Removing a nest with eggs or young birds requires extra care and may even be legally restricted during certain times of the year.
* **Chimney Condition:** Inspect your chimney for any existing damage or obstructions that may be contributing to the problem. Cracks, loose bricks, or debris can provide entry points and nesting locations for birds.
**Safety First!**
Before attempting any of the following methods, prioritize your safety:
* **Personal Protection:** Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection. Chimney environments can contain dust, debris, and bird droppings, which can be harmful to your health.
* **Ladder Safety:** If you need to use a ladder, ensure it is securely positioned and that you have someone spotting you. Never overreach or work from a ladder in windy conditions.
* **Professional Help:** If you are uncomfortable working at heights or dealing with wildlife, contact a professional wildlife removal service or a chimney sweep. They have the experience and equipment to handle the situation safely and effectively.
**Methods for Removing Birds from Your Chimney**
Here are several methods for getting birds out of your chimney, ranging from the least intrusive to more direct approaches:
**1. Prevention (Best Option – Before Nesting Begins)**
The most effective way to deal with birds in your chimney is to prevent them from nesting there in the first place. This is best done before nesting season begins (early spring).
* **Install a Chimney Cap:** A chimney cap is a metal or mesh covering that fits over the top of your chimney, preventing birds and other animals from entering. Ensure the cap is properly sized and installed to allow for adequate ventilation while effectively blocking access.
* **Regular Chimney Inspections:** Inspect your chimney regularly for any signs of bird activity, such as droppings, nesting materials, or chirping sounds. Early detection allows you to take preventative measures before a nest is established.
* **Remove Attractants:** Eliminate any potential food sources or nesting materials near your chimney. Trim trees and shrubs that overhang the chimney, and remove any loose debris or nesting materials from the surrounding area.
**2. Non-Intrusive Methods (If Nesting Has Just Begun)**
If you suspect birds have just started building a nest, try these non-intrusive methods:
* **Make Noise:** Birds are often deterred by loud noises. Try playing loud music or banging pots and pans near the chimney opening. This may encourage them to abandon their nesting site. Repeat this several times a day for a few days.
* **Visual Deterrents:** Hang shiny, reflective objects near the chimney opening, such as aluminum foil strips or pinwheels. The movement and reflection can startle the birds and discourage them from entering.
* **Smell Deterrents:** Birds have a sensitive sense of smell. Consider placing mothballs (in a sealed container with holes to allow the scent to escape, *away* from the flue opening to prevent fumes from entering the house), or strongly scented dryer sheets near the chimney opening. *Note: use caution with mothballs, especially if you have pets or children.* Many find the smell of peppermint oil to be deterring to birds as well. Saturate cotton balls with peppermint oil and place them near the chimney opening.
* **Block the Entrance (Partially, and temporarily):** Drape burlap sack partially over the chimney opening. The birds might not want to fight their way through to get in.
**Important Considerations Before Proceeding Further:**
* **Check Local Laws:** Before taking any action, research your local laws and regulations regarding bird removal. Some species are protected under federal or state laws, and it may be illegal to disturb their nests, especially during nesting season. Contact your local wildlife agency for information on protected species and regulations in your area.
* **Nesting Season:** Avoid attempting to remove a nest during nesting season (typically spring and early summer) if possible. Removing a nest with eggs or young birds is generally discouraged and may be illegal. If you must remove a nest, wait until the young birds have fledged (left the nest).
* **Professional Advice:** If you are unsure about any aspect of bird removal, consult with a professional wildlife removal service or a chimney sweep. They can provide expert advice and assistance to ensure the birds are removed safely and humanely.
**3. More Direct Methods (Use with Caution and as a Last Resort)**
If the non-intrusive methods are unsuccessful and you are certain there are no eggs or young birds in the nest, you can try these more direct methods. *Use these methods as a LAST RESORT and with extreme caution.* It is highly recommended to call a professional.
* **Chimney Sweep:** A professional chimney sweep can remove the nest using specialized tools and equipment. They can also inspect your chimney for any damage or obstructions that may have contributed to the problem. This method should only be used when you are certain that there are no birds, eggs or baby birds inside the chimney.
* **Careful Nest Removal (If Empty):** If you can safely access the nest, carefully remove it using gloves and a dust mask. Place the nest in a plastic bag and dispose of it properly. Be sure to clean the area thoroughly to remove any remaining debris or droppings.
* **Accessing the Nest:** This may involve using a ladder and reaching into the chimney. *Ensure you have proper safety equipment and assistance.*
* **Nest Material:** Carefully remove the nest material, being mindful of any sharp objects or potential hazards.
* **Cleaning the Area:** Once the nest is removed, thoroughly clean the area with a brush and vacuum to remove any remaining debris or droppings. Disinfect the area to prevent the spread of disease.
* **Smoke ‘Em Out (VERY CAREFULLY, ONLY IF LEGAL & NO OTHER OPTION):** This method uses smoke to gently encourage the birds to leave. *This should ONLY be used if absolutely necessary, and ONLY if you are certain there are no eggs or baby birds inside. Check legality first!*
* **Small, Controlled Smoke:** Build a *very small* fire in the fireplace, using only a few pieces of dry wood or paper. The smoke should be just enough to be noticeable but not overwhelming.
* **Monitor Closely:** Monitor the chimney opening for any signs of the birds leaving. Once they are gone, extinguish the fire immediately.
* **Safety Precautions:** Ensure the damper is open and that the smoke is venting properly up the chimney. *Never leave the fire unattended.* Have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency. This also involves risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, so do not do this unless you are absolutely certain it is safe.
* **Ethical Considerations:** Consider this method carefully, as it can be stressful for the birds. It should only be used as a last resort.
**4. If Birds are Trapped**
If you suspect a bird is trapped inside the chimney and cannot escape, follow these steps:
* **Seal the Fireplace Opening:** Close off the fireplace opening with cardboard or plywood to prevent the bird from entering your home. Leave a small opening at the top for ventilation.
* **Lower a Rope:** Lower a thick rope or knotted towel down the chimney to give the bird something to grip and climb. Make sure the rope reaches the bottom of the chimney.
* **Provide Light:** Shine a light up the chimney to encourage the bird to move towards the light and the rope.
* **Patience:** Give the bird plenty of time to find the rope and climb out. This may take several hours or even overnight.
* **Monitor:** Check the chimney periodically to see if the bird has escaped. Once the bird is gone, remove the rope and seal the chimney opening.
**Post-Removal Measures**
After removing the birds and the nest, take the following steps to prevent future infestations:
* **Chimney Inspection:** Have your chimney professionally inspected for any damage or obstructions that may have contributed to the problem. Repair any cracks or loose bricks, and remove any debris or nesting materials.
* **Chimney Cleaning:** Clean your chimney regularly to remove any soot, creosote, or debris that may attract birds. A clean chimney is less likely to become a nesting site.
* **Install a Chimney Cap:** Install a properly sized and installed chimney cap to prevent birds and other animals from entering your chimney. Choose a cap made of durable materials that can withstand the elements.
* **Consider Professional Sealing:** For old and crumbling chimneys, a professional can seal the inside of the chimney, using a liner. This protects the house and prevents birds from being able to build nests.
**Humane Considerations**
It is crucial to remember that birds are living creatures, and their well-being should be a top priority during the removal process. Here are some humane considerations:
* **Avoid Harm:** Avoid using any methods that could harm or kill the birds, such as traps or poisons. Use only humane methods that encourage the birds to leave without causing them injury.
* **Minimize Stress:** Minimize the stress on the birds by working quickly and quietly. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could frighten them.
* **Respect Nesting Season:** Avoid disturbing nests during nesting season unless absolutely necessary. If you must remove a nest, wait until the young birds have fledged.
* **Seek Professional Help:** If you are unsure about how to remove birds safely and humanely, contact a professional wildlife removal service. They have the experience and expertise to handle the situation effectively.
**Long-Term Prevention**
To prevent birds from nesting in your chimney in the future, implement the following long-term prevention strategies:
* **Regular Chimney Maintenance:** Schedule regular chimney inspections and cleaning to identify and address any potential problems early on.
* **Trim Overhanging Branches:** Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to prevent birds from easily accessing your chimney.
* **Seal Entry Points:** Seal any cracks or openings in your chimney to prevent birds from entering.
* **Use Bird Deterrents:** Continue using bird deterrents, such as shiny objects or scent repellents, to discourage birds from nesting in your chimney.
**Legal and Ethical Considerations in Detail**
Removing birds from a chimney can be a complex issue, intertwined with legal and ethical considerations. Understanding these aspects is crucial to ensure responsible and compliant actions.
* **Protected Species:** Many bird species are protected under federal, state, and local laws. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) in the United States, for instance, protects migratory birds, their nests, and eggs. This act makes it illegal to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell migratory birds. Disturbing nests, especially those with eggs or young birds, can be a violation. Before any action, identify the species and check its protected status in your region.
* **Nesting Season Restrictions:** Nesting season, typically from spring to early summer, often brings additional restrictions. Removing or disturbing active nests during this period may be prohibited due to the vulnerability of eggs and young birds. Check local regulations to determine permissible actions during nesting season.
* **Humane Treatment:** Ethical considerations dictate that birds should be treated humanely throughout the removal process. Avoid methods that cause harm, stress, or death. Opt for non-lethal and gentle techniques to encourage birds to leave without injury.
* **Professional Assistance:** When in doubt, seek guidance from wildlife professionals or certified chimney sweeps. They possess the expertise to handle bird removal safely, humanely, and in compliance with legal requirements.
* **Documentation:** Keep records of actions taken, including dates, methods, and any observations of bird behavior. This documentation can be helpful if questions arise regarding compliance with regulations.
* **Community Awareness:** Promote awareness within your community about responsible bird management practices. Educate neighbors about preventive measures and ethical considerations to foster a collective approach to wildlife conservation.
**Conclusion**
Dealing with birds in your chimney can be a frustrating experience, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can safely and humanely resolve the problem. Remember to prioritize safety, check local laws, and use gentle methods whenever possible. By following these steps and implementing long-term prevention strategies, you can keep your chimney bird-free and enjoy a safe and peaceful home.