As we are in the warmer months, chimney swifts are in their annual migration and nesting season across North America. These small birds often find their way into residential chimneys, using them as nesting sites during spring and summer. While they may seem harmless, chimney swifts can bring serious health and fire hazards if chimneys are not properly maintained.
Here’s what you need to know about chimney swifts, their seasonal activity, and why proper chimney cleaning and inspection by a certified company like Chimney Champions is essential.
What Are Chimney Swifts?
Chimney swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are small, fast-moving migratory birds that are often seen darting through the sky at dusk. They were once known to nest in hollow trees and caves, but today, chimneys serve as their primary nesting structures in urban and suburban areas.
These birds are unique in that they are unable to perch like most other birds. Instead, they cling to vertical surfaces to roost and build their nests inside chimneys, often without homeowners even realizing it.
When Is Chimney Swift Season?
Chimney swifts begin arriving in the United States in late March and early April, with peak nesting season occurring from May through July. By late October, they migrate back to South America for the winter.
Importantly, chimney swifts are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means it is illegal to disturb, remove, or destroy their nests while they are active or occupied with eggs or chicks.
Are Chimney Swifts a Risk?
Although chimney swifts themselves are not aggressive or harmful, their nesting and roosting can pose health and safety risks. The main concern is the accumulation of bird droppings, or guano, which can carry Histoplasma capsulatum, a fungus that causes histoplasmosis. This is a potentially serious respiratory disease, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems, children, or the elderly.
When guano is disturbed—such as when using a chimney for the first time in months—dangerous fungal spores can become airborne and circulate throughout the home.
Additionally, nesting debris can clog the flue and reduce proper ventilation, which increases the risk of smoke buildup, carbon monoxide intrusion, and chimney fires.
The Importance of Professional Chimney Cleaning
Once the chimney swifts have migrated and their nests are abandoned, it is essential to have your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected. Removing nesting material, droppings, and built-up creosote (a highly flammable byproduct of wood burning) ensures your fireplace is safe, functional, and compliant with fire safety standards.
Annual chimney cleaning is also an opportunity to identify early signs of structural damage, blockages, or moisture issues before they become costly repairs.
Why Choose Chimney Champions?
At Chimney Champions, we specialize in safe, certified, and thorough chimney inspections and cleanings. Our team is trained to handle all aspects of chimney care, including post-nesting cleanups and histoplasmosis risk mitigation.
Here’s why homeowners trust Chimney Champions:
Certified Inspectors: Our technicians are nationally certified and follow industry best practices for chimney inspections and safety assessments.
Safe Nesting Material Removal: We remove old nests and debris only after ensuring chimney swifts have migrated, in full compliance with federal protections.
Health-Conscious Cleaning Practices: We use appropriate safety gear and cleaning protocols to minimize exposure to hazardous materials like guano and creosote.
Full-Service Chimney Care: From routine cleanings to cap installations and structural repairs, we handle it all with expertise and integrity.
Schedule Your Chimney Inspection Today
Chimney swift season is temporary—but the hazards left behind can linger. If your chimney has hosted these migratory birds, or if it hasn’t been cleaned in over a year, now is the perfect time to schedule an inspection.
Protect your home and your health with professional care from Chimney Champions. Contact us today to book your appointment or learn more about our comprehensive chimney services.