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Birch Trees invaded by woodpecker #482272

Asked September 01, 2018, 4:38 PM EDT

We have 4 year old Birch trees in our backyard that were abused by the woodpeckers this year. Can you look at my pictures and tell me why they may have done this? Originally there was some concern about birch boring, but they have performed well this year and we were treating them so we thought they were okay. Any ideas would be great.

Linn County Oregon

Expert Response

Thanks for your question about woodpecker damage on your birch tree. That does look like typical sapsucker damage, and they are quite fond of birch. The good news is, the sapsuckers are actually after the sap of the tree, so they are NOT an indication that the tree has bronze birch borers. (Of course, the birch tree could have borers too, they are very common now).
The bad news is, excessive sapsucker damage can harm or even kill a tree. There is no clear solution - if you prevent the bird from working on this area, by covering it or scaring the bird, it may just move to another part of the tree, or another tree. If the tree seems to be remaining healthy, then you may just be able to accept this as part of nature.


Signe Danler, Online Home Horticulture Instructor Replied September 07, 2018, 12:10 AM EDT

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