A woodpecker pecking your wall is either drumming to claim territory or drilling for insects, and the fix is deterrence, since woodpeckers are protected. Here is how to tell the difference and what to do.
- Woodpeckers are protected, so deterrence is the fix.
- Drumming is territorial; drilling means insects.
- Use deterrents and fix the insect attractant.
- Damage is usually to siding, not structural.
Why It Is Pecking
Drumming. A fast, rhythmic drumming, usually in spring, to claim territory and attract a mate. It is loud but causes little damage.
Drilling. Drilling holes in the siding means the woodpecker is searching for insects in the wood, which signals an insect problem.
Identify the Reason
Fast rhythmic drumming in spring is territorial. If the woodpecker is drilling holes, check the siding for insect activity, since it is following food.
Deter It
Reflective tape, wind spinners, and bird netting discourage woodpeckers. Move deterrents periodically, since woodpeckers habituate. Deterrence is the legal fix, since woodpeckers are protected.
Fix the Attractant
If the woodpecker is drilling for insects, treat the insect problem in the siding. Fixing the food source stops the drilling. For more, see Woodpecker in the House Walls: What to Do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use reflective deterrents and netting, and move them periodically. If it is drilling for insects, treat the insect problem in the siding.
Drumming is territorial, usually in spring, while drilling holes means it is searching for insects in the siding.
Yes, woodpeckers are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so you cannot harm them. Deterrence is the legal fix.
Drumming causes little damage, but drilling can damage siding and signals an insect problem. Address it before it worsens.
