Woodpecker Repellents

By Terra Anders

The Pileated Woodpecker is easy to spot, and even easier to identify by its distinct drumming sound. At about 17 inches from head to tail, a crown of fire red feathers accentuates its black body. Snowy white plumes run along the bird’s checks and down the neck and under the throat. The woodpecker uses its strong silver beak dig out nest holes in dead trees or branches.  These birds have also been known to drill into the wooden siding of houses.  It is this habit that sends homeowners to the bird control experts looking for a way to deter these birds from damaging their home.

Woodpecker control efforts are best put in place prior to the bird’s mating season. During the spring woodpeckers will be on the lookout for two things: a mate and a safe place to dig a nest. Creating a plan before spring is essential to keep woodpeckers around, but prevent any woodpecker house damage from occurring.

Bird netting can be used to protect wood sidings where woodpeckers may be tempted to drill. Attach a polypropylene bird netting at the edge of the overhang with staples or plastic clips.  Make sure the netting remains a few inches away from the surface as it hangs down, covering the side of the house.  Ends can be weighted for stability, or attached to the siding using self-stick hooks.  This 3/4 inch mesh netting creates a barrier that won’t allow the woodpecker access for drilling.

Once the woodpecker netting is in place, a nesting box could be provided on the property. A wooden nesting box can act as a kind of friendly bird deterrent, since it will provide the woodpeckers a safe alternate environment to build their home. Typical nesting boxes are about 8” wide x 8” deep x 24” tall. The “front door” should be about 4 inches in diameter and be positioned toward the top of the box (about 20 inches from the floor).  Nesting boxes can stand alone on a pole lifting the nest to about 24 feet off the ground.  Better yet, hang the nesting box in a tree where woodpeckers are most comfortable. This technique of woodpecker control is humane and allows homeowners to remain on friendlier terms with the beautiful birds.

Pileated Woodpeckers generally prefer to drill their nests in a dead tree or branch. For this reason, property owners who are planning on removing dead trees should take a week to watch and closely evaluate the site.  It’s quite possible that a woodpecker family has already chosen this tree to raise their family. If a nest is found, it is best to let nature take its course before removing the tree. With a little patience and about three weeks time, the woodpecker chicks will be in flight school and quickly winging their way away from home.  The tree removal can be scheduled once the chicks have flown the nest.

Living harmoniously with woodpeckers is possible.  Understanding their mating and nesting habits will go a long way toward planning effective woodpecker control methods that give both peace of mind and a safe nesting habitat.