Fireplace Noises: Bats and Birds
Ryan went on an interesting call recently that relates to both bat and bird removal. So we offer his two-for-one blog special.
Investigation in the Chimney/Fireplace
On a recent call for noise coming from the fireplace, Ryan discovered not one, but two different species of animals in the homeowner’s chimney; chimney swifts and a solitary bat. This was a first for us!
Chimney Swifts
Chimney swifts are fascinating birds that breed in our area in the summer and migrate to South America in the winter. They are voracious insect eaters and very positive for our local ecology. They make very interesting nests which they attach right to the vertical walls of the chimney flue or in hollows of trees.
Homeowners usually become aware of noises in the chimney after the babies have hatched. When mom and dad swift bring in insects, the babies make chittering sounds in anticipation of the meal.
When we are called to investigate and find chimney swifts present, here is what we tell homeowners:
- These are valuable birds because of their insect eating.
- Federal Law protects them. It is illegal to kill them or move their nests or otherwise molest them.
- The problem won’t last more than a month; try to be patient.
- They will not harm the chimney
- You can prevent their future nesting with a chimney cap
A look down the chimney reveals chimney swifts clinging to a nest.
For more information on Nuisance birds, visit out Bird Control Page.
A Wayward Bat
While a look from the top down revealed the presence of chimneys swifts, a look in the fireplace found a wayward bat. Two insect eating species in one chimney…go figure!
There was a bowl placed by the homeowner in the fireplace to collect some dripping water and by it, Ryan found what he thought was a deceased bat. Good news for the bat, it was very much alive! He speculates it came down the chimney, past the swifts, past the smoke shelf and damper, into the fire box, and was either unable to get back up past the damper or just decided to roost there for the day.
Ryan safely removed the bat from the fire box and sent it on its way, unharmed, after a quick photo session.
Ryan prepares to release the bat
Identifying the source of the noise, providing some education on chimney swifts, and removing a bat provided an interesting change of pace in the world of nuisance animal removal.
For much more on dealing with problem bats, visit out Bat Removal Page
