Getting critter out of the chimney?

[olderthandirt]

I can't tell what it is, but I assume from the scratching it's a squirrel. How in the world do I get it out without letting it in the house? The sound is definitely grating on my nerves, and I want a fire in the fireplace tonight without having BBQ critter. Any suggestions?

[CenTexDave]

Light a fire in the fireplace. Lots of smoke will get it out of there. And tomorrow call a chimney sweep, have it cleaned and put a chimney cap on it.

[olderthandirt]

But here's my fear - when I open the flue (or whatever you call that switch), will it fall thru? Also, I do have a chimney cap/ screen thing at the top, but my guess is there's a hole in it somewhere. Suggestions on who to call are appreciated. Thanks!

[CenTexDave]

If it is a squirrel just open a door and it'll run outside. I doubt he wants in your house anymore than you want it there.

[Night Owl]

Are you sure it's in the chimney? Could be a bird. If there is a hole in the chimney you do not want to build a fire. Get the chimney checked to be on the safe side.

[olderthandirt]

I had the chimney cleaned earlier this year, so I feel pretty secure that it's safe without holes. The last time I had a fire, it was clear to the outside without smoke. Besides, I hear the scratching on metal like it's trying to climb out. It's a sound that makes you want to scream "Ewwwww......!"

Thanks for all the help/ suggestions!

[xzochye]

Get a box or plastic tote and put it in your fireplace. That way when you open the flue it will fall in that. Cover it real fast and run like crazy with it to the closest open door.

[circle_c]

Don't rule out birds that may have built a nest inside and fallen out... and will be hard to get out if they are sitting behind the flue door. I used to have my won brushes and clean my own, but son takes care of it for me now. This is not much help I know just a comment.

http://mcpuffchimneysweep.com/Inside.htm

[CenTexDave]

No birds this time of year. If you can pinpoint the noise way down the chimney to the flue you are probably right - a squirrel and is having trouble climbing out.
Follow Xzochye's instructions, but have a shotgun handy just in case.

[olderthandirt]

Okay, fingers crossed -- my son gets home from work around 5, so that's the timeframe for the "great escape". It will either be a fast success, or I'll be calling an ambulance for a heart attack! I'm too old to be messing with this kind of craziness! I think I need a drink.....