Color: Varies by species but most species males have some red on the head and most have various patters of black and white bodies.
Legs: 2
Shape: Bird
Size: Seven to fifteen inches in length
There are 21 woodpecker species in the United States. As federally protected birds, they cannot be destroyed.
Woodpeckers usually peck at dead or diseased trees/limbs, but they have also been known to peck at buildings, siding, metal, and/or air conditioners. Woodpeckers peck to find food, excavate nesting areas, or create space for food storage. They can have two or three broods per year, each with three to six young.
Damage caused by woodpeckers in structures can range from holes in wood to damaged siding and air conditioning units.
Found mostly in or on the edge of wooded areas due to food prevalence and preference for living in or near trees. They can nest in structures, fences, poles, and signposts.
Woodpecker prevention is based upon physical barriers and scare techniques. Physical barriers created in pecking areas will help. Commonly, these are made of steel mesh. Noise scare techniques are also effective in some cases. Remember, woodpeckers are protected, and any prevention or control measures must comply with federal law.
Woodpeckers peck wood for several reasons: to forage for insects and larvae beneath the bark, to excavate nesting cavities, to store food, and to drum on loud surfaces to establish territory and attract mates.
Woodpeckers primarily feed on insects, larvae, and beetles found beneath tree bark. They also eat nuts, seeds, berries, and tree sap. As experienced pest control professionals, we understand how their feeding habits can lead to property damage.
Several methods can deter woodpeckers, including visual deterrents like reflective tape and predator decoys, sound devices, and physical barriers such as netting. As pest control experts, we recommend a professional assessment to identify the most effective, humane solution for your property.