how to rid woodpeckers of pecking on your house

2 min read 16-01-2025

how to rid woodpeckers of pecking on your house

Woodpeckers pecking at your house can be incredibly frustrating. The constant drumming is disruptive, and the damage they cause can be costly to repair. But before you reach for a shotgun, know that there are humane and effective ways to deter these persistent birds. This guide will walk you through various methods to rid your home of woodpecker damage, protecting your property and the birds themselves.

Understanding Woodpecker Behavior

Before tackling solutions, understanding why woodpeckers peck is crucial. They don't randomly choose houses; several factors trigger this behavior:

Finding Food

Woodpeckers often peck searching for insects. They may be targeting insects living under your siding or in the wood itself.

Establishing Territory

During breeding season, woodpeckers become territorial and aggressively defend their space. Pecking on your house might be a way to mark their territory.

Creating Nesting Cavities

Some species peck to create nesting cavities. If you have a woodpecker repeatedly pecking in one spot, it might be building a home.

Attractive Sounds

The sound a woodpecker makes when pecking on metal or other hard surfaces can be incredibly loud. They may be drawn to the resonance, making this a self-reinforcing behavior.

Effective Ways to Deter Woodpeckers

Several methods can deter woodpeckers without harming them. Try these, and remember, consistency is key:

1. Visual Deterrents

Shiny Objects: Hang reflective objects like Mylar balloons, strips of aluminum foil, or old CDs from areas woodpeckers frequent. The movement and flashing light startle them.
Predatory Decoys: Place plastic owls or hawks near the affected areas. These visual deterrents may scare woodpeckers away, though their effectiveness varies.
Bird Spikes: These are sharp spikes installed on surfaces to prevent birds from landing. They are effective but can look unsightly.

2. Auditory Deterrents

Sound Repellents: Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds deterring woodpeckers without being audible to humans. Their effectiveness varies, and some woodpeckers adapt.
Noisemakers: A radio playing loudly near the affected area can create noise pollution that helps drive away the woodpeckers.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Sprinklers triggered by movement can startle birds and effectively deter them.

3. Repairing Damage & Removing Attractants

Repair Damaged Areas: Fill holes and cracks to remove potential nesting sites or insect hiding places. Use wood filler and seal thoroughly to prevent further pecking.
Remove Insect Food Sources: Treat your home for insects to reduce the woodpeckers' food supply. Consider professional pest control if needed.

4. Other Strategies

Distraction: Try to distract the woodpecker by providing a more appealing alternative. Offer suet feeders or birdhouses in a less problematic area.
Change the Surface: Consider covering vulnerable areas with wire mesh, plastic sheeting, or other materials that make pecking ineffective.

When to Call a Professional

If home remedies fail, contact a wildlife control professional. They can provide more advanced solutions, assess the extent of damage, and ensure humane removal or relocation of the birds. They may use strategies like using a fake nest to distract them.

Conclusion

Dealing with woodpeckers requires patience and a multi-pronged approach. By understanding their behavior and employing the right deterrent methods, you can protect your home while ensuring the well-being of these fascinating birds. Remember to always prioritize humane methods and avoid harming the woodpeckers. With persistence, you can successfully resolve this common homeowner problem.