SK Chimney Sweep & Son
Birds Nesting in Chimneys & Live Bird Removal - Sheffield & South Yorkshire

Professional chimney sweeps are often asked, “Do birds make nests in chimneys?” The simple answer is yes – they do. The most common culprits are jackdaws, although many other bird species can and will nest inside chimneys. Once inside, they can quickly cause serious problems for homeowners and create a very real fire risk.

Why Bird Nests Are a Problem

A bird’s nest in your chimney is not just an inconvenience—it’s a genuine hazard. Nesting materials can block the flue, increasing the risk of chimney fires and preventing harmful gases from safely escaping. Birds can also damage internal brickwork, cause damp issues, create persistent noise, and lead to insect infestations. Of all these issues, the fire risk posed by the nest itself is the most serious and should never be ignored.

Removing Bird Nests

The only safe and effective way to remove a bird nest is from the bottom of the chimney, through the fireplace. If your fireplace has been boarded or plastered over, it will need to be reopened before a chimney sweep can carry out the removal.

Preventing Future Nesting

It’s important to keep an eye on your chimney, particularly during the spring nesting season. If you notice jackdaws or other birds frequently gathering around the chimney pot, it usually indicates an opening they are trying to access. The best long-term solution is to fit a solid bird guard or chimney cowl, which prevents birds from entering while still allowing smoke and fumes to exit safely.

"Birds nesting in the chimney provide a real risk of damage and fire, don't light a fire and call me and I will come round"

Live Bird Removal

Live bird removal by a professional chimney sweep is sometimes necessary when birds become trapped inside a chimney. This most commonly happens during the nesting season, when birds such as jackdaws enter an open flue and are unable to escape.

A trained chimney sweep can safely and humanely remove live birds through the fireplace opening, using the correct tools and methods to avoid injury to the bird or damage to the chimney. This process is carried out in line with wildlife regulations, ensuring the welfare of the bird is always the priority.

Once the bird has been safely removed, the chimney sweep will inspect the flue for nesting materials, blockages, or damage caused by the bird’s activity. Any debris can be cleared to restore safe airflow, and advice will be given on preventing future incidents.

This usually includes fitting a suitable bird guard or chimney cowl, which allows the chimney to function correctly while stopping birds from entering again. Prompt action not only protects wildlife but also reduces the risk of chimney fires, blockages, and harmful fumes entering the home.

For advice on birds nests and removal:

call Sam Junior on
07792 403606