Birds in Your Chimney: What to Do Next
Short answer
If you hear birds in your chimney, keep the damper and fireplace doors closed, do not light a fire or try to smoke them out, and contact a qualified wildlife professional if they are nesting. Prevention — usually a properly fitted cap — comes after the birds are gone.
What to do right now
- Keep the damper and any glass doors closed so birds cannot enter the room.
- Do not light a fire or use smoke to drive them out.
- Do not poke tools up the flue.
- Note when you hear activity — it helps a professional identify the situation.
If birds are nesting
Some birds that nest in chimneys are protected species, and active nests may not legally be disturbed. We do not remove active nests. A qualified wildlife professional can advise what is appropriate for your situation and timing.
A single trapped bird
If one bird has dropped into the firebox, closing interior doors, opening an outside door or window nearby, and turning off the lights in the room can help it find its way out. If it cannot, call for help rather than chasing it.
Preventing it next time
Once the chimney is clear, an inspection can check for damage and debris, and a properly sized chimney cap keeps birds out of the flue. Neither is a solution to an active nest.
FAQ
Can you remove a bird nest from my chimney?
We do not remove active nests. Once birds have left, cleaning and capping can follow.
Will a cap trap birds inside?
It can if installed while birds are present. That is why capping waits until the chimney is clear.
Need help with this?
New or replacement caps sized to the flue, to keep out rain, debris and animals.
Chimney Cap Installation in Houston, TX- 77016 Houston
- 77029 Houston / Jacinto City area
- 77033 Houston
- 77502 Pasadena
- 77547 Galena Park