Damage From Woodpeckers & Flickers (6609)

Woodpeckers and flickers are found throughout this area. Problems are infrequent, but occasionally woodpeckers damage wooden structures. They may be observed pecking holes in wood siding, eaves, or trim boards.

Woodpeckers prefer siding made of cedar and redwood for two reasons. They may be locating insects that inhabit the wood (usually wasp larvae and beetles, not termites) or they may be creating cavities for roosting or nesting.

Because of their dependence on the structure for food or shelter, woodpeckers' habits are hard to break. Merely filling the holes or shooing the birds away are not effective.

Woodpeckers are classified as non-game birds, protected by the federal migratory bird treaty act. Exclusion and repelling are the available control methods. Decoys and models, such as snakes or owls, are ineffective. Visual repellents consisting of brightly colored reflective materials are very useful. Pie tins or commercial products such as "bird scare eyes" may be used. If the items are mobile, the effect is enhanced. Hang them on strings if possible.

Sticky or tacky bird repellents such as "tanglefoot” or "roost-no-more" that do not trap the birds can also be used, but take care in case other birds are affected.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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