Sometimes, squirrels are trapped in fireplaces but are unable to get out, causing them to attempt to climb out of fireplaces or basement pipes. Consider that the squirrel that you hear running around through a fireplace has been trapped, unless you have solid evidence that they’re capable of climbing back out by themselves. Do not attempt to smoke an animal (or any animal) out of a fireplace. A trapped animal or a baby too young to escape might be killed. If the squirrel isn’t stuck, try to entice them to continue their journey by making noise.

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

Provide an escape route:

Try hanging a three-quarter inch or larger rope along the fireplace to provide them with an escape route. Make sure to secure the rope’s end at the top of your fireplace prior to dropping the other end. Also, ensure it’s sufficient to reach the smoke shelf or damper. Do not lower anything down the fireplace that isn’t possible to quickly retrieve. A squirrel can climb the rope to escape in a matter of (daylight) days. When you’re sure that the squirrel has fled then take it off and seal the fireplace with an industrially-made cap.

Let it out:

If the squirrel is inside the fireplace (behind glass or behind a screen) you can try making enough noise to frighten them away from the damper. Close the damper as well as follow the escape instructions above.

The catch and release principle:

If the squirrel can’t or won’t quit the fireplace, the best option is to use a live trap.

• Prior to opening the door to your fireplace in order to put the trap close all doors inside the room, and then open the window or door that is outside within sight of the fire, should it be it is possible to ensure that the squirrel can move to escape? If the squirrel escapes through the fireplace, don’t pursue it.
• Set a live trap for humans with peanut butter before setting it carefully in the fireplace. The majority of squirrels will move to the side of the fireplace when they are allowed to enter the fireplace. They will remain there as long as you set your live trap slow and quiet close to the doors.
• Close the doors and then leave the area to wait until the squirrel is allowed to get into the trap.
• The squirrel should be taken outside, and unlock the trap door while standing in front of the trap. The squirrel is likely to bolt immediately from the trap.
• If not, make a wedge out of the door or tie it shut by using a zip tie, and then stand back to let the squirrel go for their own.