🐦 Birds in My Chimney: What to Do and How to Prevent It - Chimney weepers in San Antonio and Austin.

Hearing chirping or scratching sounds from your chimney? You might have some unexpected tenants—birds.

While it may seem harmless or even charming, birds nesting in your chimney can pose serious safety, health, and structural risks. Here's what you need to know if you’ve got birds in your chimney—and how to stop it from happening again.

Why Birds Nest in Chimneys

Chimneys are dark, warm, and protected—making them a perfect nesting spot for many bird species, especially in early spring. Common culprits include chimney swifts, starlings, and sparrows.

But unlike trees, chimneys come with real dangers—for both you and the birds.

Why It’s a Problem

• Fire hazard: Nesting materials like twigs, leaves, and feathers are highly flammable.

• Carbon monoxide risk: A blocked chimney prevents smoke and gases from venting properly.

• Noise and odor: Chirping, rustling, and even the smell of droppings or a trapped bird can be very unpleasant.

• Health concerns: Bird droppings can carry diseases like histoplasmosis.

⚠️ Important: In many places, birds like chimney swifts are federally protected. It’s illegal to remove or disturb their nests while they’re active.

Signs You Have Birds in Your Chimney

• Chirping or fluttering noises, especially early in the morning

• Rustling or scratching sounds

• Debris falling into the fireplace

• A strong, musty odor

• Poor draft or smoke backing up into the house when using the fireplace

What to Do If You Have Birds in Your Chimney

1. Stop using the fireplace.

Never light a fire if you suspect a bird is inside—it could injure or kill the animal and worsen the blockage.

2. Identify the species (if possible).

Chimney swifts, for example, are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. If they’re nesting, you’ll need to wait until they leave before removing the nest.

3. Call a professional.

A chimney sweep or wildlife removal expert can inspect your chimney, safely remove debris (after nesting season), and clean the flue.

4. Wait if they’re protected.

If protected birds are nesting, you must wait until late summer or fall—after the young have left—to clean the chimney.

How to Prevent Birds from Nesting in Your Chimney

✅ Install a chimney cap

This is the most effective solution. A properly fitted chimney cap with a mesh screen keeps birds, debris, and even squirrels out—while allowing smoke to escape safely.

🛠️ Have your chimney inspected annually

Regular chimney inspections can catch early signs of wildlife intrusion, structural damage, or blockages.

🍂 Clean out old nests

Once birds have migrated, have a certified chimney sweep remove any old nesting materials and sanitize the area if needed.

Final Thoughts

Birds in your chimney might seem like a small nuisance, but they can lead to major problems if ignored. With the right prevention and professional care, you can keep both your chimney—and the birds—safe.

Need help with bird removal or installing a chimney cap? [Contact us today for expert chimney care and wildlife-safe solutions.]