You would assume that since the woodpecker spends most of its time pecking on wood, that it does so for food. That’s 100% true, BUT the WOOD is not what this bird is hungry for. Woodpeckers generally feed on insects and larvae that they find within the wood. Lately, you may even be hearing them drum away at something different like metal. Learn more about why woodpeckers peck wood and metal in our latest blog.
A Tasty Treat
See also What You Need To Know About Termites
Why A Woodpecker Pecks Metal
Woodpeckers are beautiful birds and a favorite for many birdwatchers, but in the Spring, they may actually start getting on your nerves. We now know why woodpeckers peck wood for food, but they will also commonly drum away at plumbing vents, tv antennas, satellite dishes, drain pipes, gutters, chimney caps and metal poles or signs. Why a woodpecker pecks metal is something many Virginians are wondering at this time of year. You may think they’re just trying to annoy you, but in actuality, woodpeckers drum metal for two reasons: to establish their territory and to attract mates. The hard metal reverberates when pecked on and makes for a loud, impossible-to-miss sound.
The peak time for most woodpeckers to drum tends to be during the Spring months and they can be extremely persistent and often very difficult to be driven from their established territory. The issue for most people is the intensity of this drumming/pecking. It can be very alarming in a quiet house to suddenly hear. Though it may only cover a few short weeks, it can occur numerous times over the space of a single day and generally drive a person a little bit crazy.
The important thing to know about the metal pecking is that the woodpecker can’t really damage the metal. Their bills may be long and sharp, but they aren’t strong enough to penetrate metal. Their destruction with wood, however, is another subject altogether!
Should You Be Worried About The Woodpeckers
We hope that we’ve given you some insight as to why woodpeckers peck wood, metal and other items around your home. Contact Holistic Pest Solutions to learn more about our treatment plans for termites, ants, mosquitoes or any other pests or give us a call at 434 842 1700. Whether you’re in Charlottesville, Waynesboro, or close by to either, Holistic Pest Solutions has the perfect plan for you. We’re mindful of our clients AND our Earth!
*Our Environmental Commitment: Holistic Pest Solutions is committed to the preservation of our environment. Our goal is to nurture the soils and plant life of lawns and landscapes. Utilizing holistic pest control practices that cause the least amount of impact on the environment.
