Are you tired of woodpeckers pecking away at your house? Not only is it annoying, but it can also lead to costly repairs. In this article, we will discuss various methods to keep woodpeckers off your house.
Why Do Woodpeckers Peck at Houses?
Woodpeckers peck at houses for a variety of reasons. It could be for food, to excavate a nesting site or to establish territory. Regardless of the reason, it can cause damage to your house.
How to Keep Woodpeckers Off Your House
1. Cover the Affected Area
If you notice woodpecker damage on a specific area of your house, cover it with a sturdy material such as hardware cloth or sheet metal. This will prevent the woodpecker from accessing the damaged area and may deter them from returning.
2. Scare Tactics
Woodpeckers can be scared away by visual or auditory cues. You can hang shiny objects such as CDs or reflective tape near the affected area. You can also play predator calls or distress calls of woodpeckers to deter them from the area.
3. Provide an Alternative Nesting Site
If woodpeckers are pecking at your house to establish a nesting site, provide them with an alternative nesting site such as a birdhouse or nesting box. This will redirect their attention and prevent damage to your house.
4. Chemical Repellents
There are various chemical repellents available in the market that can be sprayed on the affected area to deter woodpeckers. However, it is important to read and follow the instructions carefully as some repellents may be harmful to other birds.
5. Hire a Professional
If the woodpecker damage is extensive and you are unable to deter them on your own, it may be best to hire a professional to assess the situation and provide a solution.
FAQs
Q: Is it legal to harm woodpeckers?
A: No, woodpeckers are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and it is illegal to harm or kill them.
Q: How do I know if the woodpecker damage is extensive?
A: If you notice large holes or multiple holes on your house, it may indicate extensive damage. It is best to consult a professional in such cases.
Q: Can woodpecker damage lead to structural damage?
A: Yes, if left unchecked, woodpecker damage can weaken the structure of your house and lead to costly repairs.
Q: How long do woodpeckers stay in one area?
A: It depends on the reason for their presence. If they are nesting, they may stay for the duration of the nesting period. If they are foraging for food, they may move on once the food source is depleted.
Conclusion
Woodpeckers can be a nuisance when they peck at your house, but there are various methods to keep them off. From covering the affected area to providing an alternative nesting site, there are options available to deter woodpeckers from causing damage to your house.