Did you know that your chimney system offers an inviting nesting space for a variety of animals? Chimney swifts are a species of birds that are particularly drawn to chimneys. Unlike other birds, they build their nests on vertical surfaces, as they can’t perch on trees. Every March, chimney swifts migrate from South America to North America and take residence in the eastern two-thirds of the United States.
Due to the birds’ nesting habits, many homeowners think of them as a nuisance. Batt’s Chimney Services, your trusted chimney cleaning experts, explains how you can keep these birds out of your chimney system this spring.
What Are Chimney Swifts?
Chimney swifts are small birds with long, slender wings. While they spend almost their entire lives in the air, they come down to briefly nest in the spring. One or two birds may not be a problem, but because chimney swifts sleep in massive roosts in the hundreds or thousands, they may pose a safety risk to humans. They are, after all, exposed to plenty of microorganisms and can carry bacteria and diseases.
How Can You Keep Chimney Swifts Out?
Once chimney swifts have already nested in your chimney system, there is nothing you can do. Homeowners are not allowed to remove or damage chimney swift nests until the hatchlings have left. This is because chimney swifts are protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Fortunately, chimney swifts have a short nesting cycle, and they may leave your property after about six weeks.
Nevertheless, you may be wondering how you can keep these birds out of your chimney in the first place. They can enter your chimney through a damaged chimney cap. A chimney cap that has shifted or was not properly installed may have a big gap where small swifts can squeeze in. Small holes or cracks may also allow swifts to fly inside your premises.
To protect your chimney space from these birds, make sure to have your chimney regularly inspected by a professional. An expert will check the condition of your chimney cap and perform the necessary repairs if it’s damaged. With spring just a few weeks away, you may want to schedule a chimney inspection to ensure all of its components are in great shape.
For quality chimney maintenance, look no further than Batts’ Chimney Services. For Jefferson County homeowners, call us at (205) 956-8207, while Northeast Alabama homeowners can reach us at (256) 660-1338. You can also fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment.