(by the kind permission of National Pest Management Association)
Description
Color: Varies by species but most species males have some red on the head and most have various patters of black and white bodies.
Legs: Two
Shape: Bird
Size: Seven to fifteen inches in length
Antennae: False
Twenty one species inhabit the United States. These birds are federally protected and cannot be destroyed.
Habits
Woodpeckers usually peck at dead or diseased trees/limbs, but they have also been known to peck at buildings, siding, metal and/or air conditioners. Woodpeckers peck in order to find food, excavate areas for nesting, or create room for food storage. These birds can have two or three broods per year, each with three to six young.
Habitat
Found mostly in or on the edge of wooded areas due to food prevalence and preference for living in or near trees. They can nest in structures, fences, poles, and sign posts.
Threats
Damaged caused by woodpeckers in structures can range from holes in wood to damaged siding and air conditioning units.
Prevention
Woodpecker prevention is based upon physical barriers and scare techniques. Physical barriers created in pecking areas will help. Commonly these are made of steel mesh. Noise scare techniques are also effective in some cases. Remember, woodpeckers are protected and any prevention or control is subject to compliance with federal law.
