Knowledgebase

Bird Pecking Problem #851648

Asked September 29, 2023, 2:17 PM EDT

We have a small bird that has been pecking away off and on for many days near the top of our house. I enclose two pics. I'm guessing it may be a wood pecker. But am not sure. Am wondering whether the bird is trying to punch holes into the wood or gathering possible spiders or bugs that may be running around the surface. Your advice will be greatly appreciated.

Montgomery County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

It is a type of woodpecker and it could just be 'making noise' or after some type of insects inside the column. 

If you try to re-seal the post it may be helpful in deterring the woodpecker. you could also wrap the top in some burlap or wire mesh to try to keep it off, however you may want to do that with all the post if they are similar because it could just go to the next one. You can review some of our management tips on our website for woodpeckers and sapsuckers. 

If you wanted specific bird species information you can reach out to Maryland Department of Natural Resources as this is not our area of expertise. An email can be sent to <personal data hidden> (especially if you want to share photos) or, if you would like to speak to someone, they have a Wildlife and Heritage Service phone number at<personal data hidden>. The phone line is staffed during regular business hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, except state holidays and weekends.

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied October 02, 2023, 11:08 AM EDT
Hi Emily,

Thanks very much for your reply. Just to clarify, the bird is pecking on the large wood fascia board, not the column which is made of metal.

I will consult the additional sources you provided.



 



On Monday, October 2, 2023, 11:08:35 AM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied November 02, 2023, 1:02 PM EDT

Loading ...