With forests continually being cleared, the animals who typically nest in hollow tree cavities are losing their homes, causing them to seek shelter elsewhere. Mortared brick chimneys are the 
perfect replica of tree cavities. Unfortunately, animals who gain access inside of your chimney create significant problems. Not only do they bring ticks, fleas, and other parasites into your home, they can cause a blockage, and start a potential fire by carrying flammable materials inside such as grass, twigs, and leaves. Many times animals like birds and squirrels end up dying in the chimney when they can’t get themselves back out.
This is because unlike in the past, where houses were constructed with mortared brick chimneys and clay tile liners, homes today are built with smaller metal flue pipes. The metal is too slippery, preventing the animals from gripping the material and climbing out. The bodies of the animals along with their nesting materials can also prevent carbon monoxide and other lethal gases from escaping the flue properly, causing a dangerous situation for you and your family.
If your chimney has stopped working, it’s very likely that the issue could be caused by critters such as birds, squirrels, or raccoons living in there. Keeping pests out of all parts of your home is necessary, which is why we recommend calling Critter Control® of Orlando for assistance.
How to Keep Animals out of Your Chimney
Whether you’re currently having pest problems or would like to take preventative measures to keep animals from getting into your chimney, we can help you. Installing a stainless steel chimney cap with wire mesh is an easy and effective solution for keeping critters from getting into your chimney, while at the same time allowing the by-products to be released. Another great benefit of having a chimney cap installed is that it helps to prevent water and debris from entering the inside of your home.
What to Do if You Discover Trapped Animals
If you have wild animals living in your chimney, never try and capture and release them yourself. You should also never try and smoke them out. If an animal is stuck, it could die, and then you’ll have an odor problem, on top of having to discard the body and clean up the mess yourself. Also, certain species of animals like the chimney swift bird are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Those who hurt the birds or their nests that contain eggs can face legal consequences.
Call the Professionals at Critter Control of Orlando
When it comes to complete wildlife solutions, Critter Control® of Orlando has you covered. We have over 15 years of experience assisting Central Florida residents with their animal control, pest control, and wildlife management needs.
