How to Deal With a Squirrel in a Fireplace

Deal with a squirrel in a fireplace by leaving a window open.

Squirrels can adapt to live in both urban and rural environments, since they eat many things, including fruits, nuts, bird seed and even flower bulbs. While they prefer trees, sometimes squirrels become trapped in fireplaces and chimneys. Normally, a squirrel in a fireplace will leave on its own, if given an escape route. If the squirrel does not leave, use a humane trap to free it from a fireplace.

Things You'll Need

• Humane trap
• Peanut butter
• Cable or zip-tie

Instructions

Removing a Squirrel Without a Trap

1. Lock your pets up in another room.

2. Open a window or an exterior door.

3. Leave the room until the squirrel has exited by the window or door.

Removing a Squirrel With a Trap

1. Bait the trap with a tablespoon of peanut butter.

2. Slowly slide the trap inside the fireplace doors.

3. Quietly leave the room and wait for the squirrel to be trapped.

4. Take the trap with the squirrel outside.

5. Stand behind the trap and open the door.

6. Tie the door open with the cable or zip-tie if the squirrel does not leave the trap immediately.

7. Leave the trap alone until the squirrel leaves.

Tips & Warnings

• Cap chimneys with a chimney cap to keep squirrels from becoming trapped in fireplaces.

• Clean up underneath bird feeders to keep squirrels away from houses.

• A fire started in a fireplace with a squirrel trapped in it will harm or kill the squirrel.

• Approach the squirrel calmly and slowly. Chasing a frightened squirrel can cause property damage or damage to the animal.

References

• Department of Natural Resources: Nuisance Wildlife
• Humanesociety.org; Solving Problems with Squirrels; October 2009

Resources

• University of Illinois Extension: Tree Squirrels