Woodpeckers, primarily sapsuckers, occasionally damage trees by boring a series of 1/4- to 3/8-inch closely spaced holes in the limbs or trunks of healthy trees. They feed on sap oozed from the holes. The tree wounds may attract insects, squirrels, or porcupines and can serve as entrances for diseases and wood decaying organisms. Occasionally, girdling of limbs and trunks may kill the tree.

It is discouraged to use sticky bird repellents such as Tanglefoot® and Roost-No-More® because they may fatally injure or trap birds and cause harm to other animals. Woodpeckers are protected by federal and state laws.

Hang frightening devices such as bright tin lids, plastic or mylar strips 1-inch wide and about 2-feet long or hawk mobiles in the trees so that they move in the wind to frighten sapsuckers. Mirrors that enlarge the image may also frighten sapsuckers. Woodpeckers are protected by federal and state laws.

For more information, review the Preventing Woodpecker Damage fact sheet from Colorado State University Extension.

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