Woodpecker Damage: Prevention Before the Pecking Season

Why Woodpeckers Target Homes in Wisconsin

Woodpeckers are a familiar sight in central Wisconsin. While fascinating to watch, they can wreak havoc on homes when pecking season begins. Instead of sticking to trees, they often go after:

• Cedar siding
• Wood trim and fascia
• Areas with insect activity behind siding

They peck for three main reasons: food (insects), nesting, and territory marking. The result? Holes in siding, damaged insulation, and a constant drumming sound that’s as frustrating as it is destructive.

Signs of Woodpecker Activity

Before the damage gets severe, watch for early indicators around your property:

• Small holes in wood siding or trim
• Repeated drumming noises during early morning hours
• Chipped paint or wood shavings near the foundation
• Increased insect activity in siding or eaves

Catching the problem early allows for faster, less expensive prevention.

Prevention Strategies That Work

BugBoss The X-Terminator recommends a combination of deterrents and habitat management to stop woodpeckers before they start.

• Eliminate Insect Attractants: Woodpeckers often go where carpenter ants, termites, or beetle larvae live. A thorough inspection and treatment for insects removes the food source.
• Visual Deterrents: Reflective tape, predator decoys, or shiny objects can discourage woodpeckers from targeting siding.
• Sound & Motion Devices: Noise deterrents or motion-activated devices disrupt pecking behavior.
• Siding Protection: Netting or protective coverings in high-activity zones can safeguard the most vulnerable areas.

Why Professional Help Matters

DIY deterrents can sometimes work temporarily, but woodpeckers are persistent. Without addressing the root cause — insects inside or behind siding — the damage often continues.

That’s where BugBoss The X-Terminator comes in. Our team:

• Identifies insect infestations that attract woodpeckers.
• Provides safe, effective treatments to remove the food source.
• Installs deterrent systems tailored to your home’s design.
• Helps repair and protect damaged areas to prevent repeat activity.

Protect Your Home Before the Pecking Starts

Woodpecker damage can escalate quickly, costing homeowners thousands in repairs. The best defense is early prevention before the season begins.

Contact BugBoss The X-Terminator in Clintonville today for an inspection and custom prevention plan. Keep your home protected, your siding intact, and the drumming out in the woods where it belongs.