how to get woodpecker off house

2 min read 07-02-2025

Woodpeckers, while fascinating creatures, can become a nuisance when they target your home for drumming or nesting. Their persistent pecking can cause significant damage to siding, roofing, and even structural components. This comprehensive guide will walk you through effective methods to deter these birds and protect your property. We'll cover everything from preventative measures to humane removal techniques.

Understanding Woodpecker Behavior

Before attempting to deter woodpeckers, it's crucial to understand why they're targeting your house. Several factors can attract them:

Food Sources: Woodpeckers are insectivores. If insects are infesting your home's exterior, they'll be drawn to the area.
Nesting Sites: Woodpeckers excavate cavities for nesting. If your house offers suitable crevices or soft wood, they may choose it as a nesting site.
Drumming: Male woodpeckers drum on resonant surfaces to attract mates and defend territory. Your house might simply be the most resonant object in the area.

Addressing these underlying causes is key to long-term woodpecker deterrence.

How to Deter Woodpeckers from Your House

Here's a breakdown of effective strategies, ranging from simple to more involved solutions:

1. Eliminate Food Sources

Inspect for Pests: Thoroughly check your home's exterior for signs of insect infestations. Professional pest control might be necessary.
Remove Standing Water: Woodpeckers might also be attracted to sources of water, so ensure that no water is pooling or available nearby.

2. Visual Deterrents

Shiny Objects: Hang reflective streamers, Mylar balloons, or old CDs from trees or eaves. The movement and glint deter woodpeckers.
Predatory Decoys: Place fake owls, hawks, or snakes near the affected areas. This visual deterrent can often be enough to scare them off. However, woodpeckers may become habituated to these decoys over time.
Plastic Snakes: These are inexpensive and readily available, making them a good starting point.

3. Auditory Deterrents

Ultrasonic Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds inaudible to humans but unpleasant to woodpeckers. Effectiveness varies; some woodpeckers may become habituated.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These scare woodpeckers with a sudden burst of water when they approach the house. This is a humane and effective option.

4. Physical Barriers

Repair Damaged Areas: Patch holes and cracks in siding or roofing to eliminate potential nesting sites and drumming spots.
Protective Sheeting: Cover vulnerable areas with metal or plastic sheeting to prevent pecking. This is an effective and lasting solution.
Bird Netting: This is a particularly useful option for areas where woodpeckers might be building a nest.

5. When to Call a Professional

If none of the above methods work, it's best to contact a wildlife removal specialist. They can assess the situation and employ more advanced techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are woodpeckers dangerous?

Woodpeckers are generally not aggressive toward humans. However, they can cause significant property damage.

Q: How can I prevent woodpeckers from returning?

Consistent use of deterrent methods is key. Combine multiple strategies for the best results. Regularly inspect your home for new damage or potential nesting sites.

Q: Are there any humane ways to remove woodpeckers?

Yes, all the methods described above are humane. Avoid harming or trapping the birds. Focus on making your home less attractive to them.

Conclusion

Getting woodpeckers off your house requires a multi-pronged approach. By understanding their behavior and employing a combination of visual, auditory, and physical deterrents, you can effectively protect your property while ensuring the well-being of these fascinating birds. Remember to prioritize humane methods and consider professional help if needed.