Woodpeckers pecking the tree’s wood seems good; they appear fascinating. The woodpecker is a native bird that makes holes in trees to nest and feed. But when they do the same at your house, it becomes alarming. Not only will their pecking sound annoy you, but it will also cause harm to your property.
Are you one of those house owners who wish to eliminate this problem and are looking for ways: ‘how to stop woodpeckers from pecking at your house?’ This blog will help you determine effective ways to deter woodpeckers from pecking at your house.
Understanding Woodpecker Behavior
Woodpeckers are fascinating birds known for their rhythmic pecking on wood. Understanding why they do this can help in choosing the proper prevention methods.
Reasons Behind Pecking
Woodpeckers peck on houses for various reasons. They might search for food, such as insects or larvae, hiding in the wood. They also drum to create territories or attract mates, often mistaking house sidings or gutters for resonant trees.
Attractants and Nesting Sites
Identifying attractants around the house is crucial. Insects in wood, old nests, or even shiny or reflective surfaces can attract woodpeckers. Clearing away insect-infested wood and removing old nests can discourage them.
How to Stop Woodpeckers from Pecking on House
The presence of woodpeckers in your house can only be identified by their drilling and drumming sound. They usually peck on any hard surface that can produce a loud sound. They do so to grab the attention of prospective mates. Let us discuss some practical ways by which you can deter woodpeckers from pecking on your property.
Effective Prevention Methods
With this preventive measure, you can safeguard your belongings from damage. These are:
Visual Deterrents
According to the research, woodpeckers are afraid of shiny objects. Keeping their fear in mind, we can frame effective strategies to stop them. Using reflective objects like mirrors, CDs, or aluminum foil on affected areas confuses woodpeckers. Hanging windsocks or pinwheels that move in the breeze can also deter them.
Moreover, you can use fake scare devices such as plastic snakes, scarecrows, or fake owls to frighten them.
Protective Coverings
They are installing mesh or netting over areas where woodpeckers peck to prevent direct access to the wood. These physical barriers can help you against woodpeckers. This makes it less appealing for them to drum and minimizes damage.
Repellents and Sounds
Other ways of deterring sapsuckers are:
Repellent Sprays
Natural or commercial repellents containing ingredients like garlic, hot pepper, or predator scents can discourage woodpeckers from frequenting your house.
Also, specific safe and non-toxic bird repellant sprays are available in the market for this purpose. Reapply repellents periodically, especially after rain.
Auditory Deterrents
Unexpected noise also makes sapsuckers anxious. Playing recorded woodpecker distress calls can startle woodpeckers, making them wary of the area. For this, you can use wind-chimes, ultra-sonic devices, or even clap loudly.
Woodpecker-Friendly Modifications
Certain modifications can be done to distract sapsuckers. These are:
Woodpecker Houses or Feeders
It includes offering alternative spaces for woodpeckers to nest, such as birdhouses explicitly designed for them. This can redirect their attention away from your house. Providing suet or insect feeders can also divert their focus.
Repairing and Sealing
Promptly fixing holes or damaged areas in the house and sealing them with appropriate materials deters woodpeckers from looking for insects or nesting spots.
Legal Considerations and Assistance
Knowing about legal acts and professional assistance is essential to understand what can be done correctly.
Regulations and Laws
Woodpeckers are protected under federal laws like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Understanding these regulations ensures compliance and helps choose humane and legal deterrence methods.
Professional Help
Seeking advice from wildlife experts or pest control professionals can provide tailored solutions. They can also guide you in complying with regulations while effectively deterring woodpeckers.
Creating a Woodpecker-Unfriendly Environment
Sometimes, it is required to follow practices that cause an unfriendly environment for woodpeckers.
Tactile Deterrents
Installing woodpecker-deterring devices can discourage woodpeckers from perching or pecking on specific areas. It includes using sticky repellent gels or tactile strips.
Habitat Modification
Trimming nearby trees or branches can reduce woodpecker access to your house. Removing dead or decaying trees also eliminates potential nesting sites.
Conclusion
Preventing woodpeckers from damaging your house requires a multifaceted approach. If not deterred timely, they can seriously threaten your property. Understanding their behavior, implementing deterrents, and creating an environment less appealing to them are critical steps toward peaceful coexistence without sacrificing your home.
The tips discussed in this blog will help you sleep at home and safeguard your property from damage. Follow these tips to overcome this problem without any hassle in the future.
Also Read: What is the Best Exterior Color for a Small House?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why do woodpeckers peck on houses?
A: Woodpeckers peck on houses for various reasons – they might search for food like insects hiding in the wood, establish territories, or seek nesting sites.
Q2: Will deterrents harm the woodpeckers?
A: The goal of deterrents is to discourage woodpeckers without causing harm. Visual obstructions like reflective objects or protective coverings are designed to make the area less appealing without causing injury.
Q3: Are there specific times of the year when woodpeckers are more active?
A: Woodpecker activity can vary, but they are often more active during the breeding season in spring and early summer. During this time, they might be more persistent in finding nesting spots.
Q4: What if woodpeckers persist despite deterrents?
A: If woodpeckers continue to peck despite deterrents, seeking advice from wildlife experts or pest control professionals can provide additional insights and more effective solutions.
Q5: Will woodpeckers abandon their nests if deterred from a house?
A: Woodpeckers are persistent birds. While they may be discouraged from one area, they might seek alternative spots nearby. Providing alternative nesting sites can redirect their attention.
