If you own a home with a fireplace, you’ll need to be aware of any outside issues that could damage your structure. Chimney swifts are birds that tend to choose chimneys as their nesting grounds. Below is everything you need to know about this protected species and how to keep these feathered friends away from your property with routine chimney maintenance.

How Chimney Swifts Impact Your Home

What They Are

Chimney swifts are small dark brown or gray birds that spend most of their lives in the air hunting for insects, especially mosquitoes. They can’t perch on horizontal surfaces, however, which is why they like to cling to vertical chimney walls. They’ll also build nests there. While these birds aren’t harmful to humans, they can create problems with respect to chimney maintenance.

What Issues They Cause

Thankfully, swift nests are too small to create a fire hazard. However, they or their offspring can create loud and annoying chirping noises inside your chimney. If your chimney is lined with metal, this is also a hazard for the animal. Since they can’t grip the metal flues, and might be at risk of falling into your fireplace. 

How You Can Keep Them Away

Because chimney swifts are federally protected, you must never attempt to remove the nest on your own. During routine chimney maintenance, a professional will perform the cleaning after the birds have left the nest. They’ll also install caps to prevent these birds from returning to their familiar nest the following year. 

When it’s time to schedule a cap installation or chimney maintenance, trust the professionals at Absolute Chimney Service. For over 35 years, this locally owned company has offered comprehensive chimney cleaning and upkeep services to residents of Kennebunkport, ME. They’re dedicated to helping their clients maintain clean and safe homes all year round. Call (207) 967-2274 today to schedule an appointment with a technician or visit them online to learn more about their full list of services.