There are few surprises quite like discovering an unexpected guest living inside your chimney. Whether it’s a curious squirrel, a family of birds, or the odd raccoon, animals sometimes find their way into chimneys in Alhambra, searching for shelter or warmth. While it might seem like a simple problem, getting chimney animal removal can be tricky and sometimes risky. If you’re not sure how to tackle it safely, don’t worry—let’s walk through the steps and tips you’ll need to make sure both you and the animals come out of the experience unharmed.

“When you treat every living creature with care—even the ones who surprise you—you make your home and your world a little safer for everyone.”

Spotting the Signs: Is There an Animal in Your Chimney?

Before you rush to grab a ladder, it helps to know what you’re dealing with. Sometimes it’s obvious—like scratching, fluttering, or odd noises echoing down your fireplace. Other times, you might notice an unusual smell, or even see debris and nesting material falling into your fireplace. If you spot any of these clues, it’s time to investigate further, but always remember: never light a fire if you suspect there’s an animal inside. You could harm the animal and create a much bigger problem for yourself.

Choosing the Right Approach: DIY or Call a Pro?

Your first instinct might be to handle it yourself, especially if the idea of paying for help makes you groan. But animal removal isn’t always a simple do-it-yourself project. The table below can help you figure out what’s safe to try on your own and when it’s time to pick up the phone.

Situation	DIY Possible?	When to Call a Pro?
Small bird trapped, visible near opening	Yes, with care	If bird is stuck or injured
Squirrel running inside chimney	Maybe (if not aggressive)	If squirrel seems panicked or can’t escape
Raccoon or unknown large animal	No	Always—risk of bites or disease
Signs of a nest with babies (any species)	No	Yes—special care needed

Gentle Steps: How to Safely Remove Animals

If it seems safe to proceed on your own—say, a small bird is fluttering near the top—move slowly and calmly. Wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt. Open the damper gently (if you have one) and give the animal a clear path to escape, like opening a window or door near the fireplace. Never try to pull or grab a frightened animal—it can hurt itself or you. Instead, use a soft, quiet approach: cover the opening to the room with a sheet or towel, dim the lights, and wait. Most birds or small animals will head toward the light and find their way out.

If the animal doesn’t leave on its own, or if you’re dealing with something larger or more stubborn, this is your cue to stop. Trying to chase or force the animal out can lead to injury (for both of you) or even damage to your home. Don’t use smoke, loud noises, or traps—these methods are not only stressful and dangerous for the animal, but can also be illegal in some cases.

Calling in the Experts: Why It’s Sometimes the Best Option

If you’re not sure what’s inside, or if the animal seems distressed, professional help is the safest route. Chimney animal removal experts in Alhambra know how to handle all sorts of wildlife without harm. They have the right equipment, understand local animal laws, and know what to do if babies or nests are involved. Plus, they’ll check your chimney for any damage or blockages the animal may have caused, so you won’t be left with another surprise down the road.

When you call a pro, ask about their methods—look for companies that promise humane removal. This means they’ll do everything possible to get the animal out safely and release it nearby, not harm it or leave little ones behind. After the animal is gone, a good technician will also help you figure out how the animal got in and what you can do to keep it from happening again.

Prevention: Keeping Your Chimney Animal-Free

Once you’ve had an unexpected visitor, chances are you don’t want a repeat performance. The best way to keep animals out is to install a chimney cap with a sturdy mesh screen. This simple fix stops animals from crawling in while still letting smoke escape. It’s also smart to check for loose bricks, gaps, or cracks where critters might wiggle through. If you burn wood, have your chimney cleaned regularly—old nests and debris can build up, making your chimney even more appealing to wildlife.

Read More: Alhambra Chimney Sweep