Wildlife of Tennessee · Birds
Chimney Swift in Tennessee
Protected by federal law, and a nest has to be left alone while it is active. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.
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At a Glance
About the Chimney Swift
Birds nest in vents, chimneys and signs and roost on ledges. Many are protected by federal law, so nests that are in use often must be left alone and prevention is the focus.
Protected Species
Risk: Protected by federal law, and a nest has to be left alone while it is active.
Signs You Have One
How to Tell
These are the clues that point to a chimney swift.
- Fast fluttering and chirping inside the chimney
- Twig nests glued to the flue wall
- Cigar-shaped birds circling at dusk
A Protected Species
What We Do About the Chimney Swift
This animal is protected by state or federal law, so we do not harm it. We inspect, advise and, where the law allows, use exclusion with the right timing. If you are unsure, call us before you do anything.
Prevention
Keep Them Away
Simple steps that help for this kind of animal.
- Cover vents and chimneys with heavy mesh
- Use spikes, slopes or netting on ledges
- Do not disturb active nests of protected birds
- Clean droppings with protection
Similar Animals
More Birds
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Rock Pigeon
Columba livia
Droppings carry fungus and corrode roofing, and stain vehicles and walkways.
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European Starling
Sturnus vulgaris
Block vents with nests, which is a fire hazard, and flocks leave heavy droppings.
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Protected SpeciesBirds
Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica
Protected by federal law, so nests that are in use can’t be disturbed.
Free Tool
What Animal Is It? Identifier
Pick where it is, when you notice it and the signs you see, and get a ranked list of the likely Tennessee animals.
Related Guides
Read More Before You Call
PreventionWhy You Need a Chimney Cap
A chimney is a hollow tower with a door to your living room. Without a cap, animals treat it as a front door.
Read the guide
Tennessee RulesTennessee Wildlife Rules Every Homeowner Should Know
Wildlife is regulated in Tennessee. That is good for animals, and it means homeowners should know the basics before acting.
Read the guidePreventionKeep Squirrels and Raccoons Off Your Roof
Squirrels and raccoons are great climbers. They get on the roof first, then find a weak spot.
Read the guideHow do I know if I have a chimney swift?
Common signs: fast fluttering and chirping inside the chimney; twig nests glued to the flue wall; cigar-shaped birds circling at dusk.
Is a chimney swift dangerous?
Protected by federal law, and a nest has to be left alone while it is active. When in doubt, keep your distance and call us.
What does Music City Wildlife do about a chimney swift?
This animal is protected by state or federal law, so we do not harm it. We inspect, advise and, where the law allows, use exclusion with the right timing. If you are unsure, call us before you do anything. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.
Free Estimate
Tell Us What Is Going On
Describe what you see, hear or smell and we will get back to you quickly with a plan and a free estimate. For an animal in the house or any emergency, skip the form and call 615-357-7797 any hour.
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Music City Wildlife removes and prevents wildlife problems in homes and businesses across Nashville and Middle Tennessee, from squirrels in the attic to bats in the walls, with humane methods, careful sealing and cleanup.
- 615-357-7797
- Open 24 hours for emergencies
- Nashville, Tennessee · Servicing Middle Tennessee
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