The woodpecker is an unsuspected wild animal that can cause damage to your home or land. The famous norther flicker, also known as the yellowhammer, along with seven other species, call Alabama home. Most woodpeckers have a variety of red, black and white feathers and are found in various parts of the state. Woodpeckers are mostly known because of their distinctive way to build nests. These small but mighty birds use their beaks like jackhammers to build their nest in tree cavities and communicate with other woodpeckers. Woodpeckers have an ultra-strong and unique beak that allows them to do this without absorbing the shock and harming themselves. In most cases, male and female woodpeckers work together to build their nests for breeding. Breeding typically takes place April through June and only happens once a year. Because of the time and effort spent building the nest, woodpeckers will aggressively defend their nest holes from other animals. While you won’t find them trying to seek food or shelter inside your home, they can still cause damage to the exterior of your home. It’s essential to know how to distinguish woodpecker damage and ways to manage them if they have invaded your property.

Woodpecker Damage to Your Home

Woodpeckers typically prefer dead trees to use as a food source and build their nest in. However, from time to time, the outside of your home can become a second-best option. The most common sign of woodpecker damage is a series of small, deep holes in a horizontal or vertical line along the exterior walls of your home. The holes normally arise from a woodpecker who is seeking food or attracting a mate. You might think these small holes are harmless, but this damage can lead to an infestation of insects and wildlife by providing an entry point into the structure. The holes can also cause mold growth and damage from rainwater. One of the most common signs of woodpecker damage is a drilling or drumming sound. If you happen to hear this sound consistently, you may want to investigate further.

Handling Woodpeckers Safety and Legally

Like many birds in the United States and Alabama, woodpeckers are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. When handling any federally protected bird, it’s important to stay smart and legal. Killing woodpeckers can result in a $500 fine and up to six months in jail. Let our team of experts handle the process safely and legally. Go Pro Wildlife offers visual deterrents such as a reflective device. The device uses sunlight to reflect and scare woodpeckers away from your home. Go Pro also offers structural modifications such as sealing of the holes and damage to the structure. The Go Pro Wildlife team is Bird Barrier® certified and prepared to safely work through the woodpecker exclusion process with you.

Go Pro Wildlife Removal is an experienced and knowledgeable team ready to help with the identification or removal of woodpeckers or other unwanted guests. We have the necessary tools and resources to protect your home and implement woodpecker control or exclusion options. To learn more about services or request an inspection, give us a call at (334) 744-0391.