Chimneys do a great job of allowing hazardous gases to escape from your fireplace and keeping your home warm and cozy, but did you know that they can also be entry points for pests? Birds, mice, squirrels, bats, and even raccoons can easily make their way inside, causing damage to your home's structure and endangering your family's health. Here are five pests that can enter your home through your chimney and what you can do to keep them out.

1. Birds

Birds love to build their nests inside chimneys, especially during breeding season. However, their nests can block smoke from escaping, creating a carbon monoxide hazard in your home. They can also leave excrement around your roof, causing damage to your home. And if they somehow get inside your home, they can cause havoc as they fly around trying to escape.

2. Mice

Small pests like mice can enter your home through the smallest of gaps, including your chimney. Mice can climb up the chimney wall and enter your home through the fireplace, causing damage and spreading germs. Once inside, they'll have easy access to your food and furniture, destroying possessions and leaving a mess behind. Mice can also attract other rodents and animals.

3. Squirrels

Squirrels can chew through wood and roofing material, gaining access to your chimney. They often build nests in the chimney and can create blockages, leading to a buildup of dangerous gases in your home. In addition, squirrels have strong teeth that can chew through insulation and electrical wiring, leading to a loss of heat and causing fires.

4. Bats

Bats, like birds, can enter your home through the chimney, seeking shelter inside the warmth of your home. They might hang around the chimney, but they could enter your home. Once inside, they can spread diseases like rabies, and their droppings can cause respiratory illnesses.

5. Raccoons

Raccoons are notorious for breaking into homes through the chimney. They pose a threat to your home's structural integrity and can carry rabies and other diseases. Raccoons are also social creatures and will have no problem inviting their friends into your home.

When pests enter your home through the chimney, you will have a hard time getting rid of them alone. Consider hiring a pest control service to remove them. Pest control services can identify and utilize the right tools to get rid of any pest, from birds to rodents. They can also offer tips and install measures to keep those pests from coming back into your home. If you have a chimney and notice pests taking advantage of it, consider taking action today to secure your home from these pesky pests with the help of a pest control service.