Your chimney can be a tempting place for all manner of creatures to nest. The chimney swift is a common interloper. Although these small birds may nest in tree hollows, they’ll take up residence in chimneys, attaching their nests to chimney liners, in the absence of suitable trees. If you have a nest in your chimney, contact a chimney cleaning service to manage nest removal.

Chimney Swift Identification

Chimney swifts spend most of their lives in the air, catching and eating insects. Unlike other birds, their feet do not allow them to perch. They can, however, cling to vertical surfaces like walls and chimney liners.

Grayish brown and tube-shaped with long wings, they typically nest during the summer months, producing four to five chicks at a time. Many homeowners learn they have chimney swifts when they hear baby birds calling for food. When hatchlings are about two weeks old, they fly away, leaving the nest empty. 

Are They Harmful?

In most cases, chimney swifts are harmless. Some may complain about noise. Fallen nests should be the primary concern. Swifts use saliva to adhere nests to walls or liners. If a wall or chimney liner is dirty or wet, nests can fall. Nests may also fall if you have a metal chimney liner or flue pipe, rather than masonry.

The nests themselves are not a fire hazard, but you should have them removed after the birds have left to prevent parasites. 

Protecting Your Chimney

Capping your chimney is the best way to keep chimney swifts out. If you discover evidence of birds, consult a chimney sweep service. They have the skills to remove nests safely and understand laws protecting bird species.

If you have swifts in your chimney, or you need fireplace or chimney cleaning, turn to Abbey Road Chimney Sweeps. Proudly servicing Dayton, OH, since 1982, this locally owned and family-operated company offers a wide range of comprehensive services to keep your fireplace and chimney safe and in excellent working order, including chimney liner inspections and crown repairs. Visit them online for an overview of their services, or call (937) 833-0505 to schedule an appointment.