How To Get A Squirrel Out Of Your Fireplace

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Post on Jan 01, 2025

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How to Get a Squirrel Out of Your Fireplace: A Step-by-Step Guide

Squirrels are adorable in parks, but not so much when they've taken up residence in your fireplace! Finding a squirrel in your chimney can be alarming, but with a calm and strategic approach, you can safely remove the uninvited guest and prevent future visits. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to squirrel removal, focusing on safety and humane practices.

Assessing the Situation: Before You Begin

Before attempting any squirrel removal, carefully assess the situation. Safety is paramount. Never attempt to handle a squirrel directly; they can bite and scratch. Also, consider:

• Squirrel's Condition: Is it injured or seemingly healthy? An injured squirrel might require professional wildlife removal assistance.
• Access Points: How did the squirrel get in? Identifying the entry points is crucial for preventing future intrusions. This often involves checking your chimney cap and any gaps in your masonry.
• Your Tools: You'll need specific tools (detailed below) to encourage the squirrel to leave safely. Improvised methods can be dangerous and ineffective.
• Time of Day: Squirrels are more active during daylight hours. Attempting removal during their less active periods (early morning or late evening) might be more successful.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

• A sturdy broom or long-handled brush: To gently nudge the squirrel towards the exit.
• Work gloves: To protect your hands.
• A flashlight: To illuminate the chimney and locate the squirrel.
• A sturdy cardboard box or pet carrier (optional): If you need to contain the squirrel temporarily.
• A pair of tongs or pliers (optional): For carefully removing any debris that might be obstructing the squirrel's path.
• A chimney cap (if you lack one): This is an essential preventative measure after removal.

Step-by-Step Squirrel Removal

1. Close off all other access points: Before attempting to guide the squirrel out of the fireplace, ensure all other potential escape routes – windows, doors, etc. – are closed. This will encourage it towards the chimney.

2. Create an escape route: Open the fireplace damper fully to create a clear path for the squirrel to exit.

3. Use light and sound to deter the squirrel: Shine a bright flashlight into the chimney and make some noise (gentle clapping or talking) to gently encourage the squirrel upwards. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could frighten the squirrel.

4. Gently nudge the squirrel: If the squirrel doesn't move on its own, use a broom or long-handled brush to gently nudge it towards the opening of the chimney. Do not poke or prod aggressively; aim to gently guide it.

5. Monitor the exit: Once the squirrel has exited, monitor the area for a short time to ensure it doesn't re-enter.

6. Clean up: Once the squirrel is safely gone, clean the fireplace hearth of any debris the squirrel might have left behind.

Preventing Future Squirrel Invasions

Preventing future squirrel infestations is crucial. These steps significantly reduce the chances of another unwelcome guest:

• Install a chimney cap: This is the most effective preventative measure. A properly fitted chimney cap prevents animals from entering your chimney.
• Seal any cracks or gaps: Inspect your chimney and fireplace for any cracks or gaps in the masonry and seal them with appropriate sealant.
• Remove attractive food sources: Store bird feeders away from your house and keep your yard clean of fallen nuts and seeds.
• Trim overhanging branches: Keep branches away from your roof and chimney to prevent squirrels from using them as access points.

When to Call a Professional

While these steps are effective for many situations, there are instances when professional help is necessary:

• Injured Squirrel: If you suspect the squirrel is injured, do not attempt removal yourself. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or animal control.
• Multiple Squirrels: If there are multiple squirrels or a nest present, a professional is better equipped to handle the situation safely and humanely.
• Unsuccessful Attempts: If you've tried these steps without success, contact a professional wildlife removal service. They possess the experience and tools to handle more complex situations.

By following these steps and taking preventative measures, you can effectively remove a squirrel from your fireplace and keep your home squirrel-free. Remember, safety and humane treatment are crucial throughout the entire process.