Woodpecker

Woodpeckers in Central and Eastern Virginia

Woodpeckers are found throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Certain species of woodpeckers cause damage to wooden structures by their pecking or drilling of holes. Typically, holes in structures are made in an attempt to construct a nest site or to feed on insects present in the wood. The drumming of a woodpecker on the woodwork or gutter of a home can be a major annoyance. Drumming is a springtime activity of males proclaiming their territories and may occur several times throughout the day.

Woodpecker Habitat

Woodpeckers live in forests, backyards, and various other types of habitats where trees are available. As evening falls, woodpeckers look for roosting cavities, either an old abandoned hole or a cavity they excavated specifically for roosting purposes. Woodpeckers excavate nesting holes at the start of the breeding season, usually in late April and May. These birds are very selective when choosing sites, and wooden houses or buildings in the suburbs and rural areas are most apt to be damaged by woodpeckers.

Woodpecker Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Damage to wooden structures and trees may take several forms. Holes may be drilled into wooden siding, fascia boards, or window casings. Woodpecker damage to utility poles can be severe and widespread in some regions, requiring pole replacement. In addition, woodpeckers will commonly peck out insects from infested wood on structures, particularly the larvae and pupae of the carpenter bee. Woodpeckers are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act as migratory, nongame birds. Always contact your licensed bird control experts for help with woodpecker problems.