If an animal is in your chimney, don't light a fire and don't try to smoke it out. Keep the damper and fireplace doors closed and call a chimney professional. Some birds, like chimney swifts, are federally protected and can't be removed while nesting. Once the chimney is clear, a properly sized chimney cap keeps animals out for good.
Common chimney visitors
- Raccoons often use chimneys as dens in spring, especially mothers with kits.
- Squirrels fall in and can't climb back out of smooth flue liners.
- Birds build nests on the smoke shelf or damper. Chimney swifts are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so nests must be left alone until the birds migrate.
What not to do
- Don't light a fire — it can trap and kill the animal and ignite nest material.
- Don't open the damper to "let it out" into your living room.
- Don't put chemicals or mothballs down the chimney.
Keeping them out
A stainless steel cap with mesh sides is the long-term solution. After any animal visit, the chimney should be cleaned and inspected — nests are highly flammable and can block the flue, pushing carbon monoxide back into the house.
More questions
Will an animal leave my chimney on its own?
Sometimes, but many get trapped. Raccoon mothers usually leave once kits are old enough. Call us before trying anything yourself.
Need a local professional?
Chimney Champs has been a local chimney company for 13 years. We provide chimney caps & dampers in your area. Call (856) 300-9215 for a free estimate.