Have you been hearing strange sounds—scratching, rustling, or even chirping—coming from your chimney? If so, chances are you’re not alone. Your chimney may have become an unintended home for birds, raccoons, or other wildlife. While it might seem like a small inconvenience at first, animals nesting in your chimney can lead to bigger issues down the line. From property damage to health hazards, it’s important to take action sooner rather than later.
At Go Chimney Sweep, we often get calls from concerned homeowners asking what to do when animals make their way into a chimney. Let’s walk you through why this happens, what to look for, the risks involved, and—most importantly—how to handle the situation safely.
Why Animals Are Attracted to Chimneys
Chimneys are warm, dark, and sheltered—perfect conditions for nesting animals looking for a place to hide from predators or harsh weather. Birds, especially chimney swifts, and raccoons are among the most common intruders. Raccoons are intelligent climbers and can scale brick walls or trees to access an open chimney, while birds are naturally drawn to tall, vertical spaces that resemble hollow trees.
The main reason animals can get inside is the lack of a chimney cap, or one that’s damaged or poorly installed. Without this protective cover, your chimney is left exposed and becomes a prime target for curious critters.
How to Tell if Animals Are in Your Chimney
One of the first signs is usually noise. You might hear scratching, flapping wings, squeaks, or the sound of movement—especially during early morning or nighttime hours. In some cases, you may notice an unpleasant odor, often caused by nesting material or animal waste. Some homeowners even report soot or debris falling into the fireplace.
Unlike a stuck object or soot blockage, the sounds from live animals tend to vary and may come and go. If you suspect something is alive in your chimney, it’s best to avoid lighting a fire. Doing so could hurt or kill the animal, creating a bigger—and smellier—problem.
The Risks of Animals in the Chimney
Having animals in your chimney isn’t just a nuisance—it can be dangerous for your home and your health. For starters, nesting materials are often dry and highly flammable. If a fire is lit while a nest is present, it can ignite and cause a chimney fire.
Raccoons and birds can also carry diseases such as histoplasmosis, roundworm, and parasites. Their droppings may introduce harmful bacteria into your home. Furthermore, dead animals that become trapped in the chimney can create foul odors and attract flies or other pests.
There’s also the issue of structural damage. Raccoons, for example, are known to claw and scratch at masonry or liners in an attempt to escape. Their activity can weaken your chimney over time, leading to more costly repairs later on.
What to Do If You Suspect an Animal is Inside
If you think you’ve got a bird or raccoon in your chimney, the first step is to stay calm—and don’t try to deal with it yourself. Wild animals can become aggressive when frightened or cornered. Raccoons, in particular, may carry rabies and should never be handled without professional equipment.
Avoid lighting a fire and don’t attempt to smoke them out, which can be inhumane and unsafe. Instead, call in a professional chimney sweep or wildlife removal specialist. At Go Chimney Sweep, we work closely with humane removal experts to ensure the animal is safely relocated without harming it or your chimney.
Once the animal has been removed, it’s essential to have the chimney thoroughly cleaned. Nests, droppings, and even the presence of a carcass can pose serious health and fire hazards. We’ll also inspect the interior for any damage caused by the animal’s activity and recommend necessary repairs.
How to Prevent Wildlife from Returning
The best way to keep animals out of your chimney is by installing a chimney cap with a proper mesh screen. A high-quality, professionally fitted cap acts as a barrier while still allowing smoke and gases to vent properly.
In addition to capping, it’s smart to schedule regular chimney inspections—at least once a year. This allows professionals to detect early signs of wear, damage, or wildlife intrusion. If your chimney crown or masonry is cracked, or if the flashing has gaps, these areas can also be entry points for curious creatures.
Go Chimney Sweep offers full-service inspections, cleanings, and repairs. We’ll ensure your chimney is structurally sound, clean, and safe from unwanted guests.
Why Choose Go Chimney Sweep?
We’ve seen it all—from birds nesting in flues to full raccoon families living rent-free in chimneys. Our team is trained in both prevention and post-intrusion cleanup, and we prioritize humane, effective solutions. With Go Chimney Sweep, you get reliable service, honest evaluations, and long-term results that keep your chimney safe and your home protected.
Don’t Let Wildlife Take Over Your Chimney
If you’re hearing noises or suspect animals have moved into your chimney, don’t wait. Acting quickly can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. Contact Go Chimney Sweep today to schedule a professional inspection and get expert help removing and preventing unwanted visitors from entering your home through the chimney.
