If you’ve ever had a bird stuck in your chimney, you know it’s not just a noisy inconvenience; it can turn into a serious problem fast. Between the chirping, the mess, and the risk of chimney fires, birds nesting in chimneys is an issue many homeowners in South Louisiana face during nesting season.
Let’s walk through what causes this to happen, how to handle it safely, and what to do if your DIY attempts don’t work.
Key Takeaways
• Some birds, like chimney swifts, are protected, so you cannot remove them or their nests while active.
• You should remove bird nests after the season ends because they can block the flue and cause chimney fires.
• A chimney cap with a mesh screen helps stop birds from returning and protects your home from other problems.
• Wildlife control experts can remove birds safely and check your chimney if you cannot handle the issue yourself.
Identify What Kind of Bird You’re Dealing With
Before you take any steps, it’s important to figure out what type of bird has made your chimney its home. Around here, chimney swifts are common. They’re small, grayish-brown birds that migrate and nest inside vertical structures like chimneys, much like they would in hollow trees.
Because they’re a migratory bird, they’re protected by federal law. That means you can’t legally remove them or their nests while they’re active.
If the birds are starlings or sparrows, you have more flexibility, but you still want to approach the situation with care.
Wait Until Nesting Season Is Over
If you’ve confirmed chimney swifts are inside, your hands are tied for now. You’ll have to wait until the baby birds have left the nest before taking any action.
Nesting season typically runs from late spring into summer, so this step requires patience. Removing birds or their nests prematurely could land you in legal trouble, and it’s harmful to the birds.
Clean Out the Nesting Material
Once the birds are gone for good, it’s safe to clear out the old nest.
This is not just about cleanliness. It’s about safety.
Nesting material like twigs, leaves, and feathers is highly flammable and can block your chimney flue, turning your fireplace into a fire hazard.
We recommend hiring a chimney sweep to do this part. It’s the safest and most thorough way to get your chimney cleaned and ready to use again.
Inspect for Damage and Droppings
Bird droppings aren’t just unsightly. They can carry diseases like histoplasmosis, a disease caused by bird droppings, especially in enclosed spaces like your fireplace chimney. It’s a good idea to check for stains, odor, or signs of damage once the nest is removed.
If droppings are present, professional cleaning may be necessary to avoid health risks.
Install a Chimney Cap to Prevent Future Nesting
This is one of the most important steps you can take. A chimney cap with a mesh screen keeps birds (and other animals) from re-entering your flue. It also helps block rain and debris, and it doesn’t affect airflow if installed correctly.
Around South Louisiana, chimney caps are a smart investment. Our warm climate makes local chimneys prime real estate for wild bird roosts.
If You Can’t Keep Birds Out Yourself
If things don’t go as planned, or if you’re not comfortable dealing with a bird infestation on your own, here’s what to do instead.
Call a Local Wildlife Control Specialist
Professionals trained in bird removal and wildlife control understand the laws around migratory birds and can help you avoid legal missteps.
They’ll inspect your chimney, identify the species, and determine the best time and method for safe removal. This is especially important if they are protected, or if you’re unsure what’s in your chimney.
Schedule a Professional Chimney Cleaning
Even after the birds are gone, soot, droppings, and nesting material can stick around.
A certified chimney cleaning can ensure there’s no remaining debris blocking your chimney flue. It’s also a good time to get the whole system checked for damage or wear from bird nests.
Consider Installing Bird Deterrents
If you’ve had birds roosting at the top of your chimney more than once, it might be time to add extra deterrents.
Bird spikes can prevent perching at the top of the chimney, while visual deterrents, like shiny tape or decoy predators, can discourage them from even approaching the area.
Don’t Attempt Nest Removal During the Active Season
It bears repeating: if the birds are still in the nest, particularly if they’re chimney swifts, don’t try to remove them.
Besides the legal risk, disturbing a nest mid-season often leads to dead birds, which is not something you want to deal with inside your home.
Need Help Getting Birds Out of Your Chimney?
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we understand the unique bird species that show up around Thibodaux, Houma, and throughout Southeastern Louisiana. If your DIY efforts aren’t working, or if you just don’t want to risk it, we’re here to help.
From humane bird removal to bird-proofing solutions like chimney caps and wildlife exclusion, we’ll make sure your home stays quiet, safe, and bird-free.
Our wildlife control experts offer same-day service in most areas and can safely resolve the issue without putting your home or the birds in danger.
Let us take care of it so you can get back to enjoying your home in peace.
