To exclude woodpeckers hang netting, such as ¾"; lightweight bird netting, to protect siding. When properly installed netting is nearly invisible from a distance and is a long-term solution. Leave at least 3 inches of space between the netting and the building so birds can't cause damage through the netting. Netting can also be attached to the eaves and angled back to the siding to hang below the damaged area. Secure it taut to ensure that bird can't get trapped behind it.
A variety of scare tactics use movement and reflective light to frighten woodpecker away. Try using items such as pinwheels, wind chimes, aluminum pans, strips of aluminum foil, scare tape or plastic streamers. Attach or hang them over the damaged area so they can move freely in the breeze. Hanging a silhouette of a falcon has had some success scaring woodpecker but silhouettes of other animals have not been found effective. Mylar party balloons or a scare balloon with large eyes printed on it can be hung as well. All of these techniques may work for only a short time, at least until the birds figure out it is not a threat.
When you hear the drumming use harassment techniques like shouting, banging on pots, gently squirting water from a hose or throwing tennis balls.
Woodpeckers and sapsuckers are migratory birds and are federally protected. When warranted, a bird may be killed under a special permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Before a permit will be issued it must be demonstrated that other methods of exclusion or deterrence were attempted first. Contact the nearest U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office for details.
