Notice Woodpecker Damage On Your Tree? Here’s What To Do

• Woodpeckers peck for several reasons: to search for insects, to create nesting cavities, or to communicate (yes, they "talk" like that). The type of damage you see varies by their purpose:
• Small and tightly spaced holes in neat rows or columns are known as sap wells. They're often created by yellow-bellied sapsuckers and are consistent in size.
• Large and rough cavities are typically nesting or roosting holes. Pileated woodpeckers (the large ones with red crests) are known for digging deep rectangular cavities into the trunks of dead or dying trees.
• You may also see random peck marks scattered across the bark. This suggests the bird is hunting for insects inside the wood. It's an unfortunate way to learn your tree has a pest infestation.

It might seem like harmless activity at first glance, but it can cause real trouble depending on the tree’s health and the extent of the damage.

How Does Woodpecker Damage Affect a Tree?

You may or may not enjoy the appearance of woodpecker holes, but woodpecker damage can go beyond cosmetics. Here’s how it can impact your trees:

• Structural Weakness: Deep holes or repeated pecking in the same area can compromise the tree’s strength. That makes the tree more likely to break or split during high winds or storms (a real concern in Atlanta’s summer thunderstorm season).
• Disease Entry Points: Open wounds from pecking will allow bacteria, fungi, and pests to enter. This can lead to decay or infestations.
• Reduced Vigor: For younger trees or those already under stress (from drought, disease, or root damage), repeated woodpecker activity can drain energy and slow growth.

If the damage is limited and the tree is otherwise healthy, then it may recover on its own. But if there’s significant or repeated pecking, then it’s time to take action.

What Should You Do If You Notice Woodpecker Damage?

This might actually save your tree. Woodpeckers often target trees that are already compromised. Check for signs of decay, fungal growth, dead branches, or insect infestations. If you catch the issue early on, then targeted tree service can save the tree!

Take a closer look at where the damage is occurring. Is it in one spot or all over the trunk? Are the holes shallow or deep? Is sap leaking? Try to note whether it’s fresh damage or something that’s been there a while.

Avoid the temptation to fill in the holes with sealants or caulking. This can trap moisture and lead to more harm. Trees have natural defenses and may compartmentalize the damage on their own if they’re healthy.

Make sure to discourage future pecking, though. You can try harmless deterrents like reflective tape, windsocks, or shiny streamers to dissuade the birds. However, woodpeckers are federally protected and it’s illegal to harm or kill them.

Enlist a Trained Arborist

If the tree is showing signs of stress, instability, or widespread damage, then it's time to ring up the experts. The team at Driscoll Tree Service can assess the extent of damage, determine whether the tree can recover, and recommend the best path forward.

We are proud to offer a wide range of tree service in Loganville, from planting to any necessary tree removal. Call or message Driscoll to speak with a member of our team today.