You hear a strange fluttering or scratching coming from your chimney. You might think it’s the wind or maybe an animal outside. But during the colder months, there’s a good chance you have birds nesting in chimneys. Many species look for safe, warm places when the temperature drops, and your chimney could be the perfect spot.

So, what birds may be nesting in your chimney this winter? Some are common backyard species, while others are more seasonal visitors. Either way, nests in chimneys create risks for your home and your health. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Baltimore, we’ve seen how winter bird infestations can quickly turn into big problems if they’re not addressed with safe, professional solutions.

In this article, we’ll walk you through:

• The most common birds that may choose chimneys in cold weather
• The problems they can cause if they settle inside
• Why safe and humane chimney bird removal is so important
• How we help protect families and homes all winter long

Why Chimneys Attract Birds in Winter

Before listing specific birds, it helps to understand why chimneys are so appealing in cold weather.

• Warmth: Chimneys often provide heat from fireplaces or just the insulation of the house.
• Shelter: They’re hidden and safe from snow, wind, and predators.
• Quiet: Unlike trees that shake in storms, chimneys are sturdy, dry, and steady.

When you combine those factors, it’s no surprise that many species view your chimney as prime real estate for nesting.

Common Birds Nesting in Chimneys

Here are the main types of birds you might find making a home in your chimney this winter:

Chimney Swifts

As their name suggests, chimney swifts are well-known for choosing chimneys. These birds are small, dark, and very fast flyers. During warmer months, they build nests inside chimneys using twigs glued together with their saliva.

In winter, many migrate south. But if you live in an area with a mild climate, some swifts may still stick around. Their preference for vertical, narrow spaces makes chimneys an easy substitute for hollow trees. While they’re fascinating to watch, they can block airflow and cause safety issues if left inside. They also create a lot of noise when they gather in groups, which can quickly become annoying for homeowners.

Starlings

European starlings are one of the most common winter bird infestations. They’re tough, adaptable, and not afraid of living near people. Because they gather in large groups, one starling often means more are nearby.

These birds can squeeze into chimneys and bring nesting materials like straw, grass, and even trash. The bigger problem is that starlings are noisy and messy. They may carry mites or other pests that end up spreading into your home. Their droppings can also build up inside the chimney, adding both a health risk and a fire hazard. Once starlings find a safe spot, they’re likely to return year after year unless it’s sealed off.

Sparrows

House sparrows are small but bold. They don’t mind nesting near humans and will happily use a chimney for shelter. Because they reproduce quickly, a single sparrow nest can lead to multiple generations staying in the same spot.

When sparrows enter chimneys, they often block the flue. This can trap smoke and carbon monoxide inside your home, which is dangerous for your family. They also chirp frequently, and their constant activity can disturb your peace at home. Sparrows are known to compete aggressively with other birds for nesting spots, making them even harder to manage once they move in.

Pigeons

Pigeons are famous city dwellers, but they also make their way into chimneys. These larger birds are drawn to the warmth and safety that chimneys provide in winter. Because pigeons often live in groups, they may turn one chimney into a long-term nesting area.

The issue with pigeons is the waste they leave behind. Their droppings are not only unsanitary but can also damage building materials over time. A buildup of droppings can corrode stone, brick, or metal, creating costly repairs. Pigeons are also known carriers of diseases that can put both people and pets at risk, which makes keeping them out especially important.

Doves

Mourning doves are another species to look out for. While they usually prefer trees, they sometimes choose chimneys when food and warmth are nearby. Doves are quiet compared to starlings or sparrows, which makes them harder to detect until a nest is well established.

Because of their calm nature, many homeowners don’t realize doves are present until they see debris or droppings near the chimney. Even though they aren’t aggressive, their nesting can still block airflow and cause smoke to back up indoors. Doves may also attract predators like hawks or owls, creating an even bigger problem around your home. For this reason, it’s important to deal with dove nests before they get settled.

Owls

You might not expect it, but smaller owls, such as screech owls, sometimes use chimneys. These birds are looking for warmth and protection during cold nights. While less common than sparrows or starlings, owls can cause just as much damage if they settle inside.

Owls may also bring food into the chimney, leaving behind feathers, bones, or remains from their hunts. This adds another layer of cleanup and health risk. Their sharp claws and strong beaks make them more difficult to deal with safely, which is why professional help is always best. An owl stuck in a chimney can become aggressive if threatened, putting people at risk if they try to remove it themselves.

Other Occasional Visitors

Besides these main groups, other birds sometimes end up in chimneys during winter:

• Grackle: Known for nesting in groups.
• Woodpeckers: Sometimes use chimneys for shelter, though less often.
• Small Songbirds: Desperate for warmth when temperatures drop.

Even if these birds don’t stay long, their presence can still cause blockages and sanitation issues.

Why Birds in Chimneys Are a Problem

It might seem harmless to let a few birds stay, but nests in chimneys create real dangers:

• Fire Hazards: Dry twigs and feathers can catch fire if the fireplace is used.
• Health Risks: Droppings and nesting materials may carry parasites or bacteria.
• Noise: Chirping, scratching, and flapping at odd hours can disrupt your home.
• Odors: Waste and food remains create strong, unpleasant smells.
• Blockages: Nests can block ventilation, trapping smoke or gases inside.

When these problems build up, they put your family at risk. That’s why chimney bird removal done by our professionals is the safest choice.

Preventing Future Chimney Problems

Here are a few steps we take to help families prevent bird issues in chimneys:

• Chimney Caps: Secure covers block entry while still allowing airflow.
• Sealing Gaps: We look for cracks or openings birds might squeeze through.
• Regular Inspections: Spotting small problems before they grow saves money and stress.

When you combine these prevention steps with humane removal, your chimney stays clean and safe all winter.

Why Professional Chimney Bird Removal Matters

You may think it’s easy to scare birds away, but it rarely works. Birds often return to the same spot year after year. That’s why we use safe methods, like one-way doors that let birds leave but don’t let them back in.

At Skedaddle, we also make sure nests and waste are safely removed and entry points are sealed. This not only clears the problem now but also keeps your chimney safe in the future.

Keep Your Home Safe This Winter

Having birds nesting in chimneys might seem minor, but the truth is it can lead to winter bird infestations, smoke blockages, and even fire hazards. Once nests are inside, your home and family face risks that only grow over time. Knowing what birds may be nesting in your chimney this winter helps you take the right steps before problems get worse.

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Baltimore, we use safe, humane methods for chimney bird removal. Our team makes sure the birds leave without harm and that your chimney stays secure against future issues.

Request an estimate today and let us help protect your home the right way.