CAMBRIDGE BIRD PROTECTION

There are approximately 10,000 species of birds in the world. As cute as they may be, however, they can cause major problems for homeowners.

For instance having birds’ in your chimney can lead to dangerous blockages, chimney fires, infestations and damp. Even if you don’t intend to use your fireplace – you should still remove a nest.

There are approximately 10,000 species of birds in the world. As cute as they may be, however, they can cause major problems for homeowners.

For instance having birds’ in your chimney can lead to dangerous blockages, chimney fires, infestations and damp. Even if you don’t intend to use your fireplace – you should still remove a nest.

Keeping birds out of your chimney provides better ventilation, reduces fire hazards, and creates a safer environment for your home. A chimney cap blocks birds and other animals from building nests and creating other blockages.

Other benefits of a chimney cap include:

• Stop rain from entering your flue
• Protects against hot embers
• It prevents other animals besides birds, such as squirrels and raccoons
• Reduces the chances of a chimney fire
• Aesthetically pleasing to a bland chimney top

If you’re looking for a professional, Cambridge Bird Protection can install chimney caps in all shapes and sizes. Custom chimney caps are available with high-quality materials such as stainless steel. Installing a chimney cap is safe and effective with our expertise.

If you already have birds in your chimney, a professional must remove them humanely and safely before installing a chimney cap. Some species of birds, such as chimney swifts, are protected by law and cannot be removed unless the nest is no longer active.

A bird removal expert can remove protected species in certain circumstances and advise you on the best course of action if the birds cannot be removed right away.

While birds are our feathered friends, they are dangerous to have in chimneys due to various hazards and health risks.

Chimney Blockages

There is a massive risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to a blocked chimney from bird nests or other blockages if you decide to start a fire after the birds have flown away from the nest.

Because a bird’s nest is made from dry material, such as branches, it could also cause a dangerous chimney fire.

Statistics show that around 20,000 chimney fires begin each year, accounting for millions of dollars in losses and damages. Many of the reasons for these fires are chimney blockage or a lack of cleaning. About 70% of chimney smoke can re-enter your home and neighborhood in the event of a chimney fire.

Histoplasmosis

Inhaling fungal spores from bird droppings mixed with soil can result in histoplasmosis, a lung disease that may affect weak immune systems.

High-nitrogen content mixed with the bird droppings and soil allows spores to grow, resulting in a progressive disease that may become worse if left untreated.

Symptoms are flu-like, with a dry cough, fever, chest pain, or blisters. The signs also may appear 3 to 15 days after exposure.

Other Bacterial and Fungal Infections

Many bacterial and fungal infections which can be spread by birds mimic the flu but present severe health risks if the problem continues.

Psittacosis, also called Parrot Fever, is a respiratory disease caused by bacteria found in bird droppings.

These fungal infections are airborne, which allow the spores to get into food and cause food poisoning.

Pests

Birds may also carry secondary pests and parasites such as fleas, bedbugs, mites, and ticks. If secondary pests enter your home, they can cause a whole range of diseases like West Nile Virus and encephalitis.