Chimney Swift Management
Legal and effective solutions for chimney swift conflicts
About Chimney Swifts
Chimney swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are protected migratory birds that historically nested in hollow trees but have adapted to using chimneys and other vertical structures in urban environments.
Physical Characteristics
Small, sooty-gray birds with long, narrow wings and short, spiny tail feathers that help them cling to vertical surfaces.
Behavior
Highly aerial birds that spend most of their time in flight, unable to perch like other birds. They catch insects while flying and gather nesting material by breaking off small twigs in flight.
Nesting
Build small, bracket-shaped nests made of twigs glued together with their saliva on vertical surfaces inside chimneys and similar structures.
Benefits
Each bird can consume up to 12,000 flying insects per day, including mosquitoes, flies, and other pests.
Management Considerations
Legal Protection
- Protected under federal law
- Cannot remove active nests
- Seasonal timing crucial for management
Property Issues
- Nests can create fire hazards
- Droppings accumulation
- Noise disturbance
Prevention Methods
- Professional chimney cap installation
- Seasonal timing for exclusion
- Alternative habitat creation
Our Management Approach
We use legal, effective methods to prevent chimney swift conflicts while protecting these beneficial birds.
Inspection
Thorough assessment of your chimney and other potential nesting sites.
Timing
Planning prevention work during the winter months when birds are not present.
Prevention
Installing appropriate chimney caps and other exclusion devices.
Alternatives
Optional installation of swift towers to provide alternative nesting sites.
Chimney Swift Management FAQs
Chimney swifts typically nest from late spring through early fall (May-October). They migrate to South America for the winter months.
Yes, chimney swifts are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It's illegal to remove active nests or harm the birds. Our solutions focus on prevention and exclusion during the off-season.
While beneficial insect-eaters, chimney swifts can create noise disturbance with their chattering, especially when raising young. Their nests can also create fire hazards and their droppings can accumulate, leading to odors and potential health concerns.
The most effective prevention is installing a proper chimney cap during the winter months when the birds are not present. We can help evaluate your chimney and recommend the appropriate type of cap that will prevent bird entry while maintaining proper ventilation.
Need Help with Chimney Swifts?
Contact us for legal, effective solutions that protect both your property and these beneficial birds.
Contact Us Today