A woodpecker typically pecks at a house for one of three reasons and that is to either:
• Search for bugs
• Build a home
• To mark territory
Woodpeckers are federally protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act and it is therefore illegal to harm them without a federal permit.
Below are some scare tactics that some people have had success with. It is best to take action quickly.
• Mylar tape or tin foil can be used around areas the woodpecker is pecking. Woodpeckers do not like shiny objects.
• Scary eye balloons – these balloons look like owls which scares woodpeckers
• Hawk silhouette mobiles so that they move with the breeze/wind
• Loud noises such as banging pots and pans together can frighten them off
• Aluminum pie plates and metal can lids can be hung on a string. One end of the string near a convenient window or door will allow the line to be pulled on when the woodpecker arrives
• Attack spiders – these can be found at party supply stores. A large spider falls when the woodpecker first begins knocking, scaring the woodpecker with both sight and motion.