Woodpecker

Actual Size: 6” to 18”

Characteristics: Color varies between species; males have some red color on their heads along with black and white markings.

Habitat: Will create cavities in wooden buildings and homes in residential areas.

Habits:

  • Commonly peck out insects from infested wood on structures.
  • Excavate nesting holes during breeding season, usually in late April and May.
  • Woodpeckers cause damage to wooden structures by their pecking or drilling of holes.

Woodpeckers in Puerto Rico

Woodpeckers are found throughout the Puerto Rico region. Certain species of woodpeckers cause damage to wooden structures by their pecking or drilling of holes. Typically, holes in structures are made in an attempt to construct a nest site or to feed on insects present in the wood. The drumming of a woodpecker on the woodwork or gutter of a residence, is a major annoyance to a great many people. Drumming is a springtime activity of males proclaiming their territories and may occur several times throughout the day.

Woodpecker Habitat

Woodpeckers live in forests, backyards and various other types of habitats where trees are available. As evening falls, woodpeckers look for roosting cavities, either an old abandoned hole, or a cavity they excavated specifically for roosting purposes. Woodpeckers excavate nesting holes at the start of the breeding season, usually in late April and May. These birds are very selective when choosing sites, and wooden houses or buildings in the suburbs and rural areas are most apt to be damaged by woodpeckers.

Woodpecker Behaviors, Threats or Dangers

Damage to wooden structures and trees may take several forms. Holes may be drilled into wooden siding, fascia boards or window casings. Woodpecker damage to utility poles can be severe and widespread in some regions, requiring  pole replacement. In addition, woodpeckers will commonly peck out insects from infested wood on structures, particularly the larvae and pupae of the carpenter bee.

Woodpeckers are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act as migratory, non-game birds. Always contact your licensed bird control experts for help with woodpecker problems.