Proudly American
The nest and the passage are different questions
An active bird or occupied nest calls for wildlife guidance before any attempt to sweep, cap or disturb the chimney. Orange Audubon Society describes swift families nesting inside central Florida chimneys. If the status is uncertain, consult the appropriate wildlife authority and keep the fireplace out of use. Do not lower an object, ignite paper or close off the entrance to find out what is inside.
Compare what was cleared with what remains
A prior visit may have dealt only with an animal in the room or a visible section at the fireplace opening. Ask what area that visit actually covered. Tell the sweep if twigs, flakes or pieces of hard material later dropped into the cold firebox. A close view taken from the room can help with planning, but the type and extent of an obstruction must be identified by the professional before selecting a removal method.
Book the right sequence
Request an appointment for the chimney that serves the named wood fireplace, subject to confirmed wildlife clearance. Ask how an obstruction would change the cleaning scope and how the sweep would identify portions that cannot be reached. If missing lining material or another defect is found, keep the condition assessment distinct from the amount of nesting material removed. A clear firebox floor is only the bottom end of the route.
Make a separate decision about future entry
Ask whether the chimney termination has been identified and what, if anything, can be fitted without affecting the vent. A manufactured chimney can have specific allowances for caps and surrounds. A wildlife decision, a cleaning appointment and a change to the top can involve different people. Make sure any future exclusion work takes occupancy, the actual appliance and the condition of the chimney into account.