Even the most eager backyard birders may wish they'd never
attracted birds when woodpeckers cause damage to their house,
deck, chimney or other structures. Fortunately, there are a
number of ways to deter woodpeckers and keep them from pecking
unwanted holes. Why Woodpeckers Peck The first step to
minimizing woodpecker house damage is to learn why the birds are
pecking. In general, woodpeckers peck for one of three reasons:
- Drumming: Simple drumming behavior is designed to make noise,
either to attract a mate or advertise that the nearby territory
is claimed. Damage caused by this type of pecking is minimal but
may lead to additional problems, and the constant noise can be
frustrating. - Feeding: Woodpeckers forage for insects by prying
or drilling into wood for different types of beetles, larvae and
other pests. If the food source is large, damage from
woodpeckers feeding can be quite extensive, though the holes are
often shallow. - Nesting: Woodpeckers are cavity-nesting birds
that require a hollowed out