If you’re a homeowner and have heard scratching, fluttering, or chirping noises coming from your chimney, you’re not alone. Starlings nesting in chimneys is a common issue that can lead to significant problems. These birds are notorious for seeking out the dark, enclosed spaces that chimneys provide for shelter and nesting. If left unchecked, the presence of starlings can result in safety concerns, structural damage, and even health hazards. 

Today, we’ll explain why starlings are so drawn to chimneys, the risks they pose, how to prevent birds in chimneys, and what steps you can take to protect your home.

Why Are Starlings Attracted to Chimneys?

Chimneys are a near-perfect nesting site for starlings due to their warmth, seclusion, and protection from predators. These birds, which are cavity nesters by nature, look for small and enclosed spaces similar to hollow trees found in the wild. Chimneys mimic this environment, making them an irresistible spot for nesting.

Starlings generally begin their search for nesting sites in late winter and early spring during their breeding season. Your chimney flue offers several benefits that appeal to starlings:

• Safety: The narrow space in chimneys keeps their nests sheltered from potential predators like cats, raccoons, and larger birds.
• Protection from the Elements: Chimneys offer protection from rain, wind, and low temperatures, which is ideal for raising hatchlings.
• Convenience: Urban environments have reduced natural nesting options like hollow trees, leading starlings to adapt and seek alternatives like chimneys, vents, and soffits.

This behaviour is not just an annoyance—it poses real risks for your home and family. Next, we’ll explore those dangers in greater detail.

Dangers of Starlings Nesting in Chimneys

Having starlings nesting in chimneys isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It can lead to serious safety, structural, and health risks that every homeowner should be aware of:

• Fire Hazards  

Starlings build their nests using dry materials such as grass, twigs, and leaves. When these nests are constructed inside a chimney, they can block airflow, causing smoke and dangerous carbon monoxide to back up into your home. Worse, these flammable materials can ignite when the fireplace is used, leading to chimney fires.

• Structural Damage  

The repeated nesting activity of starlings can cause damage to the interior of your chimney flue. Nesting materials may also cause wear and blockage to chimney caps or screens. Over time, accumulated droppings can corrode bricks and mortar, leading to costly repairs.

• Health Hazards  

Bird droppings are more than an unsightly mess—they can carry diseases like histoplasmosis and psittacosis. These infections pose respiratory risks for humans and can become airborne if disturbed. Additionally, the presence of mites, fleas, and other parasites often associated with birds can infest your home.

• Noise and Disruption  

The constant scratching, chirping, and fluttering of birds can be a nuisance. It’s especially unsettling at night or early in the morning when these sounds disrupt sleep or quiet time.

Now that we’ve covered the dangers, the next section will focus on actionable solutions to prevent birds in chimneys.

How To Prevent Birds in Your Chimney

The good news is there are practical steps homeowners can take to prevent starlings from taking up residence in their chimneys. From physical barriers to simple maintenance habits, here’s what we recommend:

• Install a Chimney Cap or Screen

A chimney cap is the most effective way to block birds from entering. Look for caps that include a wire mesh screen to ensure proper airflow while keeping out starlings.

• Check and Repair Damage Regularly

Make a habit of inspecting your chimney for damage or loose covers that could allow birds to enter. Be sure to address gaps, cracks, or other entry points quickly.

• Remove Nesting Sites

Starlings will often return to nesting locations they’ve used in the past. Thoroughly clean and clear any nesting materials from the chimney after ensuring the birds have vacated.

• Install Visual Deterrents

While not a standalone solution, reflective objects like shiny tape or fake predatory bird silhouettes can discourage starlings from approaching your chimney. These should be used in combination with other methods.

• Schedule Annual Maintenance

Work with a professional chimney sweep to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance each year. This can both remove hazards and prevent build-ups of soot and debris, which attract birds.

Proactively implementing these methods can save you from dealing with the risks and costs of having starlings nesting in chimneys. But what if you already have birds inside? Read on for safe and humane removal tips.

Removing Bird Nests From Chimneys Safely

If you suspect or know that starlings have already taken up residence in your chimney, it’s critical to handle the situation carefully. Attempting to deal with the birds or their nests on your own can lead to unintended risks for you and the birds. Furthermore, Canadian laws protect certain types of birds and may impose restrictions on their removal. Here are the key steps to take:

• Confirm Nesting Activity

Listen for telltale chirping and scratching sounds. You may also notice nesting materials, such as twigs and grass, visible in your fireplace.

• Do Not Light a Fire

Lighting a fire to “smoke out” the birds is extremely dangerous. It can harm the birds, damage your chimney, and even ignite a fire if there’s a blockage.

• Call a Wildlife Control Professional

At Skedaddle, we specialize in humane removal techniques that ensure both your property and the birds are safe. We have experience accessing hard-to-reach areas while adhering to safety regulations and best practices.

• Clean and Disinfect

Once the birds are successfully removed, it’s important to thoroughly clean the affected area. Our technicians handle this process safely, preventing the spread of harmful bacteria or parasites.

• Install Preventative Measures

After removal, we recommend taking preventative steps like installing a chimney cap or sealing gaps to reduce the likelihood of future nesting.

Removing bird nests properly requires expertise, specialized equipment, and a commitment to humane practices. The final step ensures you never have to deal with this issue again.

How Skedaddle Humanely Removes Birds from Chimneys

At Skedaddle, we specialize in the safe, efficient, and humane removal of birds from chimneys, ensuring your home remains secure and comfortable. Our professional team has extensive training and experience in handling bird removal, using industry-best practices to address the issue effectively while keeping both your family and the birds safe. We understand that birds nesting in your chimney can create a range of problems, from blockages and fire hazards to unpleasant odours or potential health risks caused by parasites.

• Conduct a detailed inspection of your chimney to assess the infestation and identify bird species, ensuring compliance with wildlife laws.  
• Develop a customized plan based on your specific situation.  
• Use specialized equipment and humane techniques to extract birds and remove nests or debris.  
• Disinfect the area thoroughly to eliminate bacteria or contaminants.

To prevent future intrusions, Skedaddle offers solutions such as installing durable chimney caps and sealing entry points, providing long-term protection for your home. With a commitment to customer service and wildlife safety, you can trust Skedaddle for your bird removal needs. Reach out today to schedule an assessment.

Protect Your Home From Starlings With Skedaddle

The charm of springtime birdsong can wear thin when starlings start nesting in your chimney. These small birds can become a big problem, turning cozy fireplaces into blocked and dangerous conduits. By understanding their behaviour and taking proactive measures to prevent nesting, you can protect your home from risks like fire hazards, structural damage, and health concerns.

If starlings have already moved in, don’t wait—reach out to the wildlife control experts at Skedaddle. We’re here to provide safe, effective, and humane solutions to get rid of the problem and keep your home secure. Whether you’re in Coquitlam near Como Lake Park or beyond, we’re ready to help make your home bird-free.

Call Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control today and protect your chimney for good!