We have a cover over the top of the chimney but every few years a spectacularly stupid squirrel manages to squeeze itself through the bars and lands down the chimney. Last time it happened the little chap eventually emerged into the house and happily made his escape through an open door. The latest one is perched on a ledge just above the fireplace and is showing no signs of wanting to emerge - help anyone?

Nuts.?..

Nope, but I'll hum it, you sing it!

I'm sorry , this is of no help at all but iced tea just came out of my nose when I read your thread title.

< must stop drinking when reading the maple leaf>

Take the cap off the chimney and light a fire, then place screen or close fireplace doors.

Not sure the squirrel can climb back up even if it wanted to - our Springer spaniel went up the chimney after it earlier - I would have thought if up was an option that would have done it. Dog is now covered in soot - as is much of the family room!

I suspect the 65lbs of Spaniel camped in the fireplace is probably discouraging the squirrel from coming down too.

I think it will get back up the chimney. They are great climbers and can go up the wall of a house. The only other way is to hire an animal removal company. There's no doubt it won't come down voluntarily as long as the dog is waiting for it.

I will wait for dog to go for its walk and then try enticing it with a few tasty morsels

I can't help but I was once called on by another BE poster to remove a bird from a woodstove. (Gingerly, with a towel in case you wondered how.)

I wouldn't attempt that with a squirrel they can be very nasty when defending themselves and they have very sharp teeth.

I wouldn't go lighting a fire either. If the flue is metal or tile the squirrel won't be able to climb up it.

Squirrels make good pets.

Give it a brush and tell it to sweep

A .22 should do the job.

I'd shove a fox up after it.

Do you think a fox would be more effective than the spaniel?