Creature Features: Unexpected Guests in Your Chimney!

Winter follows Halloween, and with it comes the possibility of finding unwelcome guests in your chimney. Your warm fireplace can attract all sorts of creepy creatures, including birds, bats, raccoons, snakes, and squirrels. When you discover unexpected guests in your chimney, it can be quite scary! In this article, you’ll find which creatures may be lurking in your chimney and how to evict these unexpected guests.

Wildlife Commonly Found in Chimneys

Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding region have abundant wildlife, including bats, birds, raccoons, snakes, and squirrels. These critters often make their way into chimneys through holes or openings. Since live animals can be disease carriers, don’t try to catch them yourself. It is best to contact the Humane Society or a wildlife removal specialist. They will humanely trap and release the creature.  

Birds and Bats

Birds and bats are common chimney invaders, especially during the fall and winter when looking for a warm place to roost. Birds build nests in the chimney, blocking airflow and potentially creating a fire hazard. Bats can also carry diseases, so it’s essential to have a professional evict these unwelcome guests from your chimney as soon as possible.

Raccoons

Raccoons are another common chimney squatter in western New York. These furry bandits are known for their intelligence and resourcefulness and often reside in chimneys to escape predators. Raccoons can also damage your chimney and attic, and they can also carry diseases. They may look cute, but they may also become aggressive and attack if they feel threatened. It’s best to call a professional wildlife control company to remove the critter safely.

Snakes

Snakes may not be the first creature you think of when it comes to chimney guests, but they can be a nuisance. Snakes are attracted to the chimney’s warmth and can slither into your home through the fireplace. The Northern Copperhead is one of three venomous snakes common in Monroe County, NY. For your safety, call a professional for snake removal.

Squirrels

Squirrels are another typical chimney critter. These agile creatures are excellent climbers who can easily access your chimney through loose bricks, a missing chimney cap, or other openings. They too may carry diseases from living in the wild and will litter your chimney with empty nut shells and other organic matter. 

Prevent Animals Entering Your Chimney

There are a few things you can do to prevent animals from entering your chimney:

• Install a chimney cap. A chimney cap is a metal cover that fits over the top of your chimney. It has a screen to keep out animals, rain, snow, and other debris.
• Seal any openings around the masonry and flashing. Openings in your masonry and flashing can create a way for smaller critters to wiggle their way into the chimney.
• Trim trees and shrubs away from your chimney. Animals often use trees to climb onto your roof and into the chimney.
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly. Our professional chimney sweep will remove any debris that may be attracting animals, and they can also check your chimney for any damage that could feature an entry point for animals.

Chimney Inspection And Cleaning

Annual chimney inspection and cleaning by a CSIA-Certified Chimney Sweep® prevents unexpected creatures from damaging your chimney and creating fire or health hazards. From chimney inspection and cleaning to repairs, rebuilding, and replacement, Felgemacher Fireplace Shop in Buffalo (Cheektowaga), NY, features everything your hearth desires to enjoy your fireplace safely. Call (716) 482-1820 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today!