Chimney Animal Removal
Bird in the Chimney in Salt Lake City, UT
A bird in the chimney can mean fluttering, scratching, or calls from the flue. We assess where it is and explain the work needed to remove it safely before you use the fireplace again.
- Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Garrett Sullivan has 16 years of chimney and fireplace experience
- Service covers Salt Lake City and Wasatch Front towns within 60 miles
- Clear explanations and recommendations for only the work you need
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Open 24/7Same-day serviceWarranty from 2 years16 years of experienceChimney & gas fireplace serviceClear advice, no upsellsWhat a Bird in the Chimney Means for Your Fireplace
Birds may enter a chimney through an opening at the top and become unable to find their way out. You might hear fluttering, scratching, or calls from the flue, or notice nesting material near the fireplace. The sound can travel through the chimney, so it may be difficult to tell exactly where the bird is.
Avoid lighting a fire or operating a gas fireplace while a bird may be inside. Smoke, heat, and exhaust can put the bird and people in the home at risk. Our chimney animal removal service addresses the animal, while any needed repair depends on what we find at the entry point or inside the chimney.
What Can Affect a Bird-in-Chimney Estimate
- Where the bird is — A bird near the fireplace opening may require different work from one higher in the flue. Tell us where you hear or see movement, if you can tell.
- What is inside the chimney — Nesting material or more than one bird can change the work involved. Do not reach into the chimney to check; share what you can observe from a safe position.
- Access and visible damage — A blocked or damaged top opening may affect the work needed to address the entry point. Mention any visible damage or trouble you have noticed.
- Whether an inspection is needed — A chimney inspection starts at $39. That price is for the listed inspection service, not a price for bird removal or any repair.
Need help now? (385) 243-7715
How Birds Get Into Chimneys
An opening at the chimney top
A bird can enter through an opening where the flue is not protected. The entry point may not be visible from the fireplace, so avoid climbing onto the roof to investigate.
A loose or damaged chimney cap
A cap helps cover the flue opening. If it is loose, damaged, or missing, that opening may let birds and nesting material in.
A sheltered place to nest
A chimney can offer a protected space for nesting. Twigs or other material near the opening may signal activity, but do not try to pull debris out through the fireplace.
An unused fireplace
A chimney that is not being used may go unnoticed while birds explore the opening. Sounds or debris are reasons to pause fireplace use and arrange an assessment.
Signs of a Bird in Your Chimney
Fluttering or flapping
Repeated movement sounds from above the firebox can indicate a bird is in the flue. Stop using the fireplace until the chimney has been checked.
Scratching or tapping
Scraping and tapping may come from movement against the chimney walls. Note when it happens and whether it seems to come from the fireplace or another part of the house.
Calls from inside the flue
Chirping or other bird sounds can carry through the chimney. Keep people and pets away from the fireplace opening, and do not reach inside.
Twigs or debris near the opening
Nesting material at the fireplace or visible around the chimney top can point to bird activity. Tell us where you found it, but leave it in place until the chimney is assessed.
Need help now? (385) 243-7715
Frequently asked questions
Can I call about a bird in the chimney at night or on a weekend?
Yes. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can call about a bird in the chimney at night or on a weekend. Do not light a fire while you wait for service.
Does a damaged chimney cap need repair or replacement?
It depends on the cap’s condition and how it is attached. A loose cap may call for repair, while a missing or badly damaged one may need replacement; the chimney should be assessed before deciding.
Is it safe to keep using the fireplace door if a bird may be inside?
Do not use the fireplace while you suspect a bird is in the chimney: do not burn wood or operate a gas fireplace. Keep the fireplace opening closed if it has a door, and do not open it to reach for the bird.
What should I tell you when I call about a bird in the chimney?
Tell us what you hear or see, where it seems to be, and whether you found nesting material or visible damage. Mention whether the fireplace is wood-burning or gas if you know; then request service or call (385) 243-7715.
Request Chimney Animal Removal
Call (385) 243-7715 or request service online. Tell us what you have noticed so we can understand the situation before the visit.