Hearing chirping, scratching, or rustling noises coming from your chimney? You’re not alone. Birds in chimneys are more common than many homeowners realize, especially during the spring and summer when birds are seeking nesting spots. If you’re in Durham, dealing with this situation might feel overwhelming, but with the right information and approach, it’s manageable. 

This guide will walk you through how to remove birds from your chimney and, more importantly, how to prevent them from returning.

Remove Birds From Chimney Safely And Effectively

The first and most critical step is ensuring the birds are removed safely and humanely. Here’s how we approach this process.

Assess The Situation

Before taking any action, it’s important to identify what type of bird may be in your chimney. Chimneys can attract species like chimney swifts and starlings, both common cavity-nesting birds. Their behaviours, nesting habits, and legal protections often dictate how removal should be handled. Chimney swifts, for example, are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, making it illegal to disturb active nests.

To assess the situation:

• Listen for specific bird sounds to narrow down the species.
• Check for visible signs of activity like nesting materials near the chimney’s opening.
• Observe if adult birds are frequently entering and exiting the chimney.

Be cautious and maintain a safe distance. Disturbing active nests or handling the situation improperly could harm the birds or create legal issues.

Avoid DIY Solutions

While it might be tempting to handle the situation yourself, DIY solutions often do more harm than good. Common risks include:

• Accidentally injuring birds.
• Damage to your chimney structure.
• Potential exposure to bird droppings, which can carry harmful pathogens like histoplasmosis.

Instead, consult a professional service like ours at Skedaddle, where trained technicians ensure birds are removed humanely without compromising safety.

Ensure Humane Removal

Removal methods depend on whether the birds are actively nesting or simply roosting. Here’s what we do:

• If nesting: We wait until the young birds are old enough to leave the nest naturally. This can take a few weeks, depending on the species.
• If roosting: Non-protected birds can be gently guided out using methods designed to avoid stress or harm.

After birds have vacated, we clean the chimney thoroughly to remove any nesting material or droppings that may create a fire hazard or health risk.

Prevent Birds From Entering The Chimney Again

Once the birds are out, the next step is ensuring your chimney becomes, and remains, bird-proof. Prevention is key to avoiding a repeat scenario.

Install A Chimney Cap

A professionally installed chimney cap is one of the most effective solutions. These caps cover the chimney’s opening while allowing smoke and air to flow freely. They prevent not just birds but also other wildlife and debris from entering.

Look for durable materials like stainless steel or galvanized metal to withstand harsh Canadian winters. Chimney caps designed with fine mesh are particularly effective for keeping even the smallest species out.

Inspect And Seal Openings

Birds are resourceful and can exploit the tiniest gaps. Conduct a thorough inspection of your chimney and roof area for potential entry points. Pay close attention to:

• Gaps around flashing.
• Loose bricks or mortar.
• Openings near soffits or roof vents.

Seal all potential openings using weather-resistant materials, and for large areas, consider installing bird-proof netting.

Use Visual And Sound Deterrents

Visual deterrents such as reflective tape or predator decoys can discourage birds from approaching your chimney. Sound deterrents, which emit bird-disturbing frequencies, are also a good option. However, these measures may only be partially effective and should be used alongside structural modifications.

Prevent Birds In The Chimney With Regular Maintenance

Ongoing maintenance is critical to ensuring your chimney remains bird-free year-round.

Schedule Annual Chimney Inspections

An annual inspection is an excellent way to catch potential issues before they arise. Your chimney professional can identify vulnerabilities, such as damaged caps or gaps, and recommend solutions to keep birds out.

Regular inspections are especially important in Durham, where fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions can cause wear and tear on your home’s exterior.

Clean Your Chimney

A clean chimney is less attractive to birds. Nesting materials and droppings leave behind odours that signal other birds to move in. Opt for a professional cleaning service that not only removes debris but also sanitizes the area to eliminate lingering scents.

Mind The Seasons

Spring and early summer are prime nesting seasons. Taking preventive measures before these periods can drastically reduce the likelihood of birds using your chimney as a nesting spot. Starting inspections and installations in early spring ensures your home is ready for the busiest time of the year for local bird populations.

Cleanup Tips

If birds have left nesting material or droppings in your chimney, cleaning up properly is essential to avoid health and safety issues.

• Wear The Right Gear: Always wear protective gloves, a mask, and goggles when handling nesting materials or bird droppings. These can carry diseases like psittacosis or salmonellosis, which can pose severe risks to your health if inhaled or ingested.
• Remove All Debris: Using a long-handled brush, carefully sweep out all materials from the chimney. Make sure to dispose of them in sealed plastic bags to prevent contamination.
• Sanitize Thoroughly: Disinfect the chimney with a wildlife-safe cleaner to remove bacteria and other pathogens. This step is crucial, as pathogens can remain airborne long after materials are removed.
• Consult Professionals: For extensive cleanup or when dealing with health-compromising debris, it’s best to leave the job to professionals. Our team at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control specializes in removing all traces of wildlife with a focus on your family’s safety and health.

How Can Skedaddle Help with Bird Removal?

At Skedaddle, we understand that dealing with birds in your property can be both challenging and concerning. Our experienced team provides comprehensive bird removal services, ensuring the process is safe, humane, and effective. Using proven techniques, we carefully remove birds from your home or business, while protecting both the animals and your property. 

Our approach includes identifying and securing potential entry points, thoroughly cleaning contaminated areas, and installing bird-proofing measures to prevent future intrusions. With a strong commitment to safety and professionalism, we prioritize the health of your family and the integrity of your space. Trust Skedaddle Wildlife Removal in Durham to deliver tailored bird removal solutions with lasting results.

Keep Durham Chimneys Safe And Bird-Free

Living in Durham means coexisting with a rich variety of wildlife, but that doesn’t mean you have to share your home with them. By following these steps, you can safely remove birds from your chimney and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing they won’t return.

If you’re tired of dealing with birds in your chimney or need professional help to secure your home, we’ve got you covered. At Skedaddle, we bring over 30 years of experience and a lifetime guarantee to every project. Call us today to schedule an assessment and take the first step toward a bird-free home.