If you’ve ever heard mysterious scratching or scurrying from inside your chimney, you’re not alone. In Austin, it’s pretty common for wildlife like squirrels, raccoons, or even birds to take refuge in chimneys. But as cozy as your fireplace might seem to them, it can spell trouble for both the animals and your home. Knowing how to handle these unexpected guests is essential, not just for your peace of mind, but for the safety of your house and the well-being of the wildlife. Let’s walk through the typical steps involved in safely and responsibly removing animals from chimneys here in Austin with professional Chimney Animal Removal.
“Every animal in your chimney has its own story, but it’s up to us to give that story a safe and humane ending.”
Step One: Spotting the Signs of an Uninvited Chimney Guest
Before you can help an animal out of your chimney, you need to know one’s in there. Sometimes it’s obvious—you might hear scratching, fluttering, or even chittering sounds coming from above the fireplace. Other times, your first clue is a sudden, not-so-pleasant smell or a pile of debris in the hearth. In Austin, raccoons and squirrels are frequent visitors, especially in the spring and fall. Birds, particularly chimney swifts, also love to nest in these vertical tunnels. If the damper won’t close, or if you notice twigs, leaves, or animal fur, it’s probably time to investigate further.
Don’t try to poke around with a flashlight or stick your head up the chimney—start by making sure the fireplace is cold and unused. Listen closely and try to determine if the sounds are coming from the base, the middle, or the very top of the chimney. Jot down what you notice, as this will help if you need to call in a professional later on.
Step Two: Safety First—Yours and The Animal’s
Once you suspect there’s an animal up there, resist the urge to light a fire or attempt to smoke it out. This old trick is not only dangerous, it can harm or kill the animal and could even create a fire hazard in your home. Instead, make sure kids and pets stay away from the fireplace, and consider closing off the room if you’re worried about a frightened animal escaping into your living space.
If you’re feeling brave and want to check things out yourself, put on gloves and a dust mask. Animals can carry diseases, and chimneys are dusty places. But keep in mind, most removals are safer and more successful when handled by people with the right tools and training. In Austin, there are several wildlife removal experts who know how to gently coax animals out without causing harm to them or your house.
Step Three: Calling in the Experts—What to Expect
If you’ve confirmed there’s an animal in your chimney (or even if you just suspect it), your best bet is to reach out to a local wildlife removal service. These folks are experienced with the critters common to the Austin area and have special gear for getting them out safely. When you call, be ready to share what you’ve seen and heard, and answer questions about the structure of your chimney and fireplace.
After you schedule a visit, the technician will usually start by inspecting the outside and inside of the chimney. They may use cameras on long poles to peek inside without disturbing the animal. If babies are present, extra care is taken to reunite the whole family outside. Humane traps and exclusion devices are often used—these let animals leave the chimney but not get back in. Once the animal is out, the technician will typically check for damage and clean out any nests or droppings.
Step Four: Making Sure It Doesn’t Happen Again
After the animal is safely removed, you’ll want to keep your chimney off-limits to future furry or feathered climbers. Most pros will recommend (or even install) a chimney cap, which is kind of like a little screened hat for your chimney. This lets smoke out but keeps animals, leaves, and rain from getting in. If your chimney was damaged or clogged by nesting material, a thorough cleaning will help prevent future issues.
It’s also smart to trim back any tree branches hanging near the roof, since these can act as highways for squirrels and raccoons. And if you had a bird nest in your chimney, remember that in some cases (like with chimney swifts) it’s illegal to remove their nests while occupied, so always check with your removal expert about timing.
Chimney Animal Removal Service Costs in Austin
| Service Type | Typical Cost Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Inspection | $75 – $150 | Initial check to confirm animal presence and recommend next steps. |
| Single Animal Removal | $175 – $325 | Removal of one animal, such as a raccoon or squirrel, from the chimney. |
| Multiple Animal Removal | $300 – $500 | For situations with several animals or litters (like a family of raccoons). |
| Nest & Debris Cleanout | $100 – $250 | Removal of nesting material, droppings, and chimney cleaning. |
| Chimney Cap Installation | $150 – $400 | Preventative measure to block animals and debris from entering. |
| Emergency Service | $200 – $450 | After-hours or urgent animal removal (weekends, evenings, or holidays). |
Extra Tips for Austin Homeowners
Living in Austin means you share your space with all sorts of wildlife, from clever raccoons to noisy grackles. If you want to avoid future run ins, a little prevention goes a long way. Check your chimney cap every year, especially after strong storms or high winds. Keep your yard tidy so animals aren’t tempted to nest nearby, and always keep your fireplace flue closed when not in use. If you ever find an animal stuck in your chimney, remember—patience, kindness, and a bit of professional help are your best tools.
Wrapping It Up: Removing animals from your chimney in Austin isn’t just about solving a noisy inconvenience—it’s about caring for your home and the wildlife that surrounds it. The steps are simple: notice the signs, keep safety in mind, call in the experts, and make sure it doesn’t happen again. With the right approach, both your house and your unexpected chimney visitors can stay safe and sound. The next time you hear a thump or a flutter from above, you’ll know what to do—and who to call.
Read More: Austin Chimney Sweep
