Wildlife in Basements

In most cases, a wild bird or animal in a basement will be able to leave on his own, given the opportunity. This is best done by opening the basement windows and turning off the lights. If there is a doorway to the outside at the top of the basement stairs, this should also be opened. The animal will recognize the open doors or windows as exits and leave within an hour or two. Any windows that do not open or you would prefer to keep closed should be covered with a towel or blanket so the animal will not be attracted to the light. Keep people and pets out of the basement so they don't scare the animal into hiding.

In situations involving chipmunks and squirrels, a light coating of baby powder or flour can be sprinkled on the windowsill. After a few hours, look for the animal's footprints to determine if he has left.

Most animals and birds in basements come in through the chimney and furnace system. We strongly recommend that everyone cap his or her chimney to prevent this problem from recurring. A chimney cap is a wire mesh and sheet metal cover that fits over the top of the chimney pipes outside of your home. Learn more about chimney caps and how to install them.

Wildlife can also enter the basement through the dryer vent. Relatively easy to install and inexpensive, a dryer vent guard will keep most wild animals out, including chipminks and birds. Dryer vent guards are also available at our Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.

If you have followed these instructions and are a resident of Milwaukee County, please call (414) 431-6204 to speak with our staff for further recommendations, if the animal has not left within a couple hours.