When Is the Right Time to Schedule Chimney Animal Removal with Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep?

Chimneys are a cozy, quiet, and dark environment—perfect for critters such as birds, squirrels, and raccoons to nest temporarily. Unfortunately, what feels like a cozy haven for them can quickly become a messy and dangerous problem for you. That’s where Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep comes in.

But the question many homeowners ask is:
“When is it appropriate to schedule chimney animal removal?”
Let’s explore the answer to this important question, plus how to stay proactive and protect your home year-round.

Why Animals Invade Chimneys

Chimneys are particularly attractive to animals because they mimic hollow trees, which are natural nesting sites for many species. The most common invaders include:

Birds (especially chimney swifts)
Raccoons
Squirrels
Bats
Rodents

These animals can carry diseases, block ventilation, and even cause fires due to nest materials. It's crucial to act promptly.

Ideal Timing for Chimney Animal Removal

Knowing when to act is essential. Below is a table that outlines the best time to schedule chimney animal removal, based on seasonal behavior of animals.

Season	Animal Activity	Best Action
Spring (Mar-May)	Nesting season for birds, squirrels, and raccoons	Schedule inspection/removal before hatchlings appear
Summer (Jun-Aug)	Young animals become mobile	Remove any remaining animals & install chimney cap
Fall (Sep-Nov)	Animals seek warm shelter	Ideal time for preventative chimney sealing
Winter (Dec-Feb)	Limited activity, but raccoons may den	Emergency removal if sounds/smells detected

“We often see the worst chimney damage in the spring and fall,” says Jake Lawson, lead technician at Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep. “That's when the animals are most active—and that's when we receive the most urgent calls.”

Signs You May Need Chimney Animal Removal

Don’t wait for a disaster to happen. If you see any of the following, it's time to call Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep:

Strange scratching or rustling sounds
Unusual odors coming from the fireplace
Debris or nesting material falling into the hearth
Poor chimney draft or smoke backup
Squeaking or chirping noises (particularly at dusk or dawn)

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to blocked flues, chimney fires, or exposure to zoonotic diseases like histoplasmosis and rabies.

What to Expect from Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep

When you schedule a chimney animal removal with Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep, here’s what you can expect:

Thorough Inspection
Using lights and cameras, we identify nesting locations and animal types.
Humane Removal
We safely remove animals using industry-approved, humane traps and techniques.
Sanitization and Cleanup
Nesting debris, droppings, and contaminants are removed to prevent odors and disease.
Chimney Cap Installation
To prevent future invasions, we install durable stainless-steel or copper chimney caps.
Ongoing Maintenance Recommendations
Our team provides seasonal reminders and inspection suggestions to keep your chimney clear and safe.

Why Choose Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep?

With years of experience in chimney animal removal, Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep stands out for:

Humane wildlife practices
Certified chimney technicians
Emergency service availability
Local knowledge of regional wildlife behavior
Affordable pricing and seasonal discounts

Our customer-first approach ensures your home is protected without harming local wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I remove the animal myself?

A: It’s not recommended. Many wild animals can bite, carry diseases, or become aggressive. DIY efforts can be hazardous and illegal in certain regions. Always call a professional like Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep.

Q2: What if there are babies in the nest?

A: If young animals are present, we’ll schedule removal for the safest time possible and ensure no animal is left behind.

Q3: Will the animals come back?

A: Not if you install a chimney cap and follow seasonal maintenance. We offer prevention solutions to make your chimney animal-proof.

Q4: Do you offer emergency services?

A: Yes, Big Bear Lake Chimney Sweep provides emergency animal removal for situations that require immediate attention, such as dead animals or blocked flues.

Q5: Is chimney animal removal expensive?

A: Costs vary depending on the type of animal and damage. We offer free quotes and fair pricing, along with bundled services like chimney sweeping and cap installation.