What to Know about Fireplaces, Chimneys and Pests

We often think about having a cozy fire during the cold winter months. We often envision being curled up with a loved one under a blanket watching a favorite show, reading a book, or just getting lost in the flames' dance. Unfortunately, the fireplace and the connected chimney are two of the most common places where pests can hide or get caught unexpectedly. Let's take a look at the pests that are most common, the signs of a fireplace pests, and what you can do to prevent these incidents from happening in the first place. Get back to enjoying your fireplace as soon as possible.

Most Common Fireplace Pests

If you have a fireplace, you know that it can be a welcome place of rest and relaxation in the winter. The same goes for pests! Chimneys and fireplaces are a quiet, safe, and warm place to nest, hideout or, sometimes, get trapped by accident. The most common pests that find their way into fireplaces are:

• Birds
• Bats
• Squirrels
• Raccoons
• Rodents

Signs of a Fireplace Pest

Many times when there is a pest, (or a family of pests) taking shelter in your fireplace or chimney, there will most definitely be red flags or signs of an infestation. Here are the most common signs that you have someone other than Santa Claus in your chimney.

• Droppings - All animals leave droppings near or around their nest. If you have a bird, bat, or squirrel living in your chimney, you may notice droppings in and around your fireplace, or even outside your home. The smell alone may key you off to an unwanted visitor.
• Noises - Many homeowners report hearing scurrying, frantic flapping, or squeaking in the chimney. These noises could be the signs of rodents scurrying around, birds who have gotten trapped frantically trying to find a way out, or the sounds of wildlife making themselves at home in your chimney.
• Pet Panic! - Many times, the presence of a pest in your chimney or fireplace will be just enough to set off a pet such as a dog or cat to act excitable. Look for those reactions.
• Tracks - Some pests will venture into your home from the chimney and eat your food, or leave tracks or urine marks. Be on the lookout!

Prevention

One of the best ways to keep pests of all varieties out of your chimney is by shutting the flue after using your fireplace each time. Another method of keeping pests from entering your home via the fireplace is to install a door to your fireplace. If you suspect that you may be harboring pests in your fireplace or chimney, call us at Pest-End Exterminators at 1-800-287-4321, 603-382-9644, or 978-794-4321.