There are a few potential reasons why a bird may be pecking on your house:
Looking for food
Birds like woodpeckers peck on houses searching for food and insects. They can hear bugs crawling inside walls and use their sharp beaks to dig them out. Woodpeckers also peck to create holes in wood to build nests and store food.
Claiming territory
Birds may peck to claim an area as their territory and ward off other birds. The pecking sounds let other birds know the territory is occupied. This is common during breeding season.
Inspecting for nesting sites
Birds peck to inspect potential nesting sites. They may peck to test if a hole in siding, roof, or another area of the house could work for building a nest to raise young.
Common bird species that peck on houses
Bird | Description |
---|---|
Woodpeckers | Woodpeckers peck holes searching for insects and to create nests. There are several types including downy, hairy, red-bellied, red-headed, and pileated woodpeckers. |
Northern flickers | Northern flickers peck at houses hunting for ants and other insects that live in wood. They also peck to communicate and attract mates. |
European starlings | European starlings are aggressive birds that peck holes for nesting. Large flocks pecking at once can do serious damage. |
Sapsuckers | Sapsuckers, like yellow-bellied sapsuckers, drill holes for sap they feed on. The rows of holes they create can damage surfaces. |
The pecking habits of these birds can damage siding, eaves, window frames, and trim. Their constant pecking can also be a nuisance.
When bird pecking becomes a problem
Bird pecking normally does not harm the house. But extensive pecking over time can cause issues:
Structural damage
If allowed to persist, bird pecking can compromise wood and allow water damage or decay. Large holes can weaken surfaces.
Nest hazards
Nests in holes or openings can prevent proper ventilation leading to moisture damage. Nests may contain mites, fleas, or waste.
Noise
The constant tapping noises from pecking can become very bothersome, especially early in the morning.
It is best to take action when pecking starts to prevent more severe damage. Extensive repairs to replace wood, improve insulation, and fix water issues gets costly.
Inspecting the pecking
To determine why a bird is pecking:
- Look for signs like nests, holes, or sap marks to identify the bird.
- Watch when and where pecking occurs.
- Listen for pecking sounds coming from inside walls.
- Use binoculars to observe the bird’s behaviors.
- Have an expert inspect if damage is severe.
Take notes on what surfaces the bird prefers. This helps determine if it is searching for food, nesting spots, or sap. Ongoing monitoring provides clues to the motivation.
Deterring problematic pecking
Here are some humane ways to stop undesirable pecking:
Bird scare deterrents
Install deterrents like:
- Scare tape – Reflective strips that move in wind.
- Scare eye balloons – Large eyes watching can scare birds.
- Predator decoys – Fake owls or hawks placed where birds peck.
Relocate and vary deterrents periodically so birds do not become accustomed.
Noise makers
Use loud sounds to startle birds and disrupt pecking patterns:
- Banging pots and pans.
- Whistles, air horns, or other noisemakers.
- Squirt guns or water hoses sprayed near them.
Do this consistently so birds learn pecking results in scary noises.
Habitat modification
Modify the area to make it less appealing:
- Trim back tree branches near the pecking.
- Block access to patio roof beams or overhangs.
- Install wire mesh over holes.
- Seal cracks and openings wider than 1/4-inch.
This removes protective cover and food sources drawing birds.
Repellent gels
Apply sticky gels:
- Polybutene repellent coatings.
- Hot pepper wax or gel repellents.
These make surfaces sticky or emit odors birds dislike. Reapply after rain or snow.
When to call a professional
Contact a wildlife control professional if:
- Damage is excessive.
- DIY solutions have not worked.
- Large numbers of birds are involved.
- Nests have become established inside openings.
- You are unable to identify the bird species.
Professionals have experience addressing difficult bird problems. They can:
- Identify holes and entry points.
- Remove nests.
- Use special equipment and materials for exclusions and repairs.
- Apply products in high or hard to reach areas.
- Help select optimal deterrents.
- Employ techniques like trapping if necessary.
Getting an expert assessment can save you time and repair expenses.
When to tolerate pecking
Not all bird pecking demands action:
- During nesting season from spring through mid-summer.
- On very large or multi-story homes where exclusion is difficult.
- If pecking is minor and not damaging house.
- When harming the bird is a concern.
Monitor these situations and address them if pecking persists or increases. Temporary tolerance prevents taking actions that could harm birds during vulnerable times.
Preventative measures
Prevent pecking issues by:
- Installing bird nets over alcoves and peaks birds favor.
- Routinely patching small holes and cracks in wood surfaces.
- Painting or staining susceptible areas to camouflage damage.
- Pruning back tree branches touching the house.
- Keeping gutters clean to avoid insect infestations.
An ounce of prevention saves the hassle and expense of stopping excessive bird pecking damage later on.
Conclusion
Bird pecking on a house typically does not cause serious issues. But letting damage progress can result in costly repairs. Identifying the bird species and motivations allows selecting effective humane deterrents. For severe pecking issues, seeking professional expertise often provides the best solution. With prompt action and sensible tolerance during nesting seasons, bird pecking can usually be managed without harming birds or your home.