If you’ve ever heard odd scratching, flapping, or scurrying sounds coming from your fireplace, you’re not alone. Saint Louis homes, with their cozy chimneys, can sometimes turn into unexpected havens for curious critters. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and even the occasional bat might decide your chimney is the perfect place to hang out. When you realize you’ve got an uninvited furry (or feathered) guest, the question pops up: “Who can get this animal out of my chimney today?” Let’s dig into how to find same-day chimney animal removal in Saint Louis, what to expect from these services, and how much it might set you back.
Why Do Animals Love Chimneys So Much?
To us, chimneys are for cozy fires and holiday stockings. But to a wild animal, a chimney is like a five-star hotel: dark, warm, and safe from predators. Sometimes a bird accidentally falls in and can’t get out, or a mother raccoon decides your flue is the best spot to raise her babies. Squirrels might see it as a shortcut into your attic, while bats just want a quiet place to roost. Unfortunately, animals can’t read “No Vacancy” signs, so it’s up to us to encourage them to check out—with help from the pros.
That’s why it’s important to have your chimney inspected and properly capped. A chimney cap with a sturdy mesh screen not only keeps wildlife out, but also prevents debris buildup and rain damage. If you suspect an animal has already moved in, don’t try to smoke them out or remove them yourself—this can be dangerous for both you and the animal. Instead, contact a licensed wildlife removal expert who can safely and humanely evict your uninvited guests and help prevent future visits.
What Should You Do if You Discover an Animal in Your Chimney?
First things first: don’t panic, and definitely don’t try lighting a fire to “smoke them out.” That’s not safe for you or the animal. If you hear noises or see feathers and fur where there shouldn’t be, it’s best to leave the flue closed and call a professional. Many Saint Louis companies realize that animal stowaways can’t wait, and they offer same-day or emergency services to help you out quickly. While you wait, keep pets and kids away from the fireplace to avoid any surprise meetings.
To a wild animal, your chimney isn’t just a vent—it’s a warm, quiet, predator-free paradise.
Who in Saint Louis Can Remove Chimney Animals the Same Day?
The good news is you have options. Several local wildlife removal companies and some specialized chimney sweep businesses understand that living with a raccoon in your wall isn’t something you want to do for even one more night. Here’s what you can expect when you reach out:
- Fast response: Many companies keep a few slots open every day for urgent calls. If you call early, you’re likely to snag a same-day visit.
- Humane removal: The best services safely remove the animal without harm, using traps, one-way doors, or gentle coaxing. They know how to handle everything from frantic squirrels to stuck ducklings.
- Chimney inspection: After the animal is gone, pros check for damage and point out areas where other critters could get in. Some will even offer to install a chimney cap on the spot.
- Follow-up advice: Good companies explain how to keep animals out for good, whether that means repairs, caps, or a bit of landscaping.
Here are a few types of service providers you might find in Saint Louis:
- Wildlife control companies (like Critter Control, Wildlife Command Center, or local specialists)
- Chimney sweeps that offer animal removal as part of their services
- Emergency pest removal services (some pest control firms do same-day animal rescue)
How Much Does Same-Day Chimney Animal Removal Cost?
Prices can vary a bit depending on what’s in your chimney (and how many of them there are!). Here’s a general idea of what you might pay for chimney animal removal in Saint Louis. Keep in mind, these are rough estimates, and some companies may charge more for emergencies, after-hours calls, or especially tough removals (like a nest of baby raccoons).
| Service | Description | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single Animal Removal | Removing one animal (e.g., squirrel, bird) from chimney | $125 – $225 |
| Multiple Animals / Nest Removal | Extracting a family or nest of animals (e.g., raccoon with babies) | $175 – $350 |
| Emergency/Same-Day Fee | Extra charge for same-day or after-hours service | $50 – $120 |
| Chimney Cap Installation | Fitting a cap to prevent future animal entry | $100 – $275 |
| Chimney Inspection | Full check for damage, nests, or entry points | $80 – $150 |
Tips for Preventing Future Chimney Visitors
If you’ve just had a feathery or furry friend evicted, you probably don’t want a repeat performance. Here are some simple things Saint Louis homeowners can do to keep animals out of the chimney for good:
- Install a chimney cap. This is the #1 way to block entry. Make sure yours is sturdy and in good shape.
- Trim back tree branches. Squirrels and raccoons are Olympic-level climbers. If branches touch your roof, it’s like rolling out the red carpet.
- Keep up with maintenance. Regular chimney cleaning and inspections help spot problems early—before something moves in.
- Seal gaps and cracks. Animals can squeeze through surprisingly small holes. Check your roofline, attic, and chimney crown for weak spots.
If you’re not sure what to look for, many chimney pros will do a quick “animal entry check” during an inspection.
Conclusion: Find Fast Chimney Animal Help in Saint Louis
Discovering an animal in your chimney isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time—especially when you want it gone yesterday. The upside is that Saint Louis has a handful of reliable, animal-friendly services ready to help the same day you call. Whether it’s a frantic bird, a sleepy raccoon, or something in between, professional removal is safe, fast, and usually more affordable than you’d think. Remember, the sooner you call, the sooner your living room goes back to being just for people (and the pets you actually invited!). And once the coast is clear, a chimney cap is your best friend for keeping future visitors on the outside, where they belong.
Read More: Saint Louis Chimney Sweep
