Who can I call to get rid of woodpeckers?

If woodpeckers are hammering away at your home or business, it’s not just annoying—it can lead to costly damage. From holes in siding to relentless noise, these birds can create real problems that aren’t easily solved with DIY tricks.

Since woodpeckers are protected under federal law, handling them the wrong way could land you in legal trouble. That’s why knowing exactly who to call and what steps to take makes all the difference in dealing with woodpeckers safely and responsibly.

Why Would You Need to Remove Woodpeckers?

While woodpeckers play an important role in nature, they can become a serious nuisance when they start targeting homes or commercial properties. Their pecking isn’t random — it’s usually tied to finding food, marking territory, or creating nesting spots, all of which can lead to property damage.

If left unchecked, woodpecker activity can weaken structural elements and cause ongoing noise problems that disrupt your daily routine. Below are the two main reasons property owners typically look for professional help

Property Damage Risks

Woodpeckers are known for drilling holes into wood, stucco, metal siding, and even utility poles. Over time, these repeated pecking actions can create deep holes, cracks, and water damage that affect a building’s integrity.

In many cases, these birds target the same spot over and over, making minor damage turn into something much bigger. This is why early intervention is key to protecting your home or business from costly repairs.

Noise and Disturbance Issues

The constant tapping and drumming sounds caused by woodpeckers can be surprisingly loud and stressful. For homeowners, it disrupts sleep and quiet time, while businesses may face distractions that affect productivity.

Unlike seasonal pests, woodpeckers can stick around for months if the conditions are right. That’s why addressing the issue quickly helps restore peace and avoid long-term aggravation.

Who Can You Call to Get Rid of Woodpeckers?

When woodpeckers start damaging your property, calling the right professional makes all the difference. Because these birds are federally protected, removal must follow specific legal and humane guidelines—so you’ll want experienced help rather than risking DIY mistakes.

Here are the three main types of services equipped to handle woodpecker removal safely and effectively:

Licensed Wildlife Control Companies

Licensed wildlife control companies specialize in dealing with protected species like woodpeckers. These professionals are trained to assess the problem, apply non-lethal deterrents, and handle any legal permits required for removal or relocation.

What sets them apart is their focus on long-term solutions, such as exclusion techniques and habitat modification. By addressing both the immediate issue and underlying causes, licensed wildlife pros help prevent repeat visits from the same birds.

Bird Control Specialists

Some companies focus exclusively on bird-related issues, offering advanced solutions specifically designed for species like woodpeckers. Bird control specialists often use custom deterrents such as visual scare devices, sound deterrents, and exclusion netting.

These services are ideal if woodpeckers are part of a larger bird control problem, such as managing pigeons or starlings alongside them. Their expertise ensures targeted results without harming the birds or breaking any regulations.

Local Pest Control Services (When Applicable)

While not all pest control companies handle woodpeckers, some do offer bird management services as part of their package. It’s important to check that they have experience with federally protected species and understand the legal steps involved.

Pest control teams that handle woodpeckers will usually partner with wildlife specialists or obtain special permits to do so. Always confirm credentials before hiring to avoid unintentional legal issues or ineffective service.

Why It’s Important to Hire Professionals Instead of DIY

Handling woodpeckers on your own might seem tempting, but it can easily backfire both legally and practically. Woodpeckers are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which means disturbing, harming, or trapping them without proper authorization is illegal and could result in fines or penalties.

Beyond legal risks, DIY methods like loud noises, fake predators, or homemade deterrents often don’t work long-term. Professionals have access to specialized equipment, exclusion materials, and expertise that ensures the birds are removed safely and effectively without damaging your property or putting wildlife at risk.

What Methods Do Professionals Use to Remove Woodpeckers?

Wildlife removal professionals focus on non-lethal deterrents and exclusion techniques that discourage woodpeckers from returning. Common methods include installing reflective tape, bird netting, or specialized sound devices that create an environment woodpeckers naturally avoid. These tools are designed to work without harming the birds while protecting your home’s siding, roof, or wood structures.

In addition to deterrents, professionals may seal up existing holes or apply protective coatings to vulnerable areas. This combined approach helps stop current damage while preventing future pecking behavior, giving you both immediate relief and lasting protection.

Non-Lethal Deterrents and Exclusion Techniques

Non-lethal deterrents are the first line of defense when dealing with woodpecker problems. These might include visual deterrents like shiny tape or predator decoys, sound repellents that mimic natural threats, or physical barriers like mesh and netting installed over damaged sections.

Exclusion techniques are especially effective because they physically block access to preferred pecking spots without disrupting the bird’s natural habits. Professionals ensure these methods are installed correctly and comply with wildlife protection laws, which keeps your home safe and your conscience clear.

Habitat Assessment and Prevention Planning

A key part of professional woodpecker control is assessing why the birds targeted your property in the first place. Experts look for factors such as insect infestations, soft wood, or open cavities that attract pecking behavior, then develop a prevention plan based on those findings.

By addressing these root causes—rather than just reacting to the birds—you reduce the chances of future issues. This proactive approach sets professional services apart from temporary DIY fixes, giving you peace of mind that the problem won’t return.

What to Expect From a Woodpecker Removal Service

When you call a professional woodpecker removal service, the first step is usually a thorough inspection of your property. Experts will check for visible damage, active pecking sites, nesting areas, and any signs of insect activity that might be attracting the birds in the first place. This helps create a clear picture of how severe the issue is and what removal methods are most appropriate.

Once the inspection is complete, the removal team develops a custom plan tailored to your specific situation. This plan may include installing deterrents, sealing entry points, or even coordinating with wildlife agencies if permits are needed. Most services also offer follow-up visits to ensure the problem stays under control, helping you avoid repeat damage down the line.

Inspection Process

The inspection process goes beyond spotting obvious damage—it’s about identifying patterns and triggers for the woodpeckers’ behavior. Professionals check siding materials, rooflines, eaves, and even nearby trees to get a complete understanding of why the birds are targeting your space.

This thorough approach ensures that any recommended solutions aren’t just temporary patches. By digging into the root causes, experts can create a removal and prevention plan that holds up over time.

Custom Removal Plan and Follow-Up

After inspection, you’ll receive a custom removal plan that outlines the tools, techniques, and timeline involved in handling the woodpecker issue. This plan typically combines visual deterrents, sound devices, and exclusion barriers, always focusing on non-lethal, legal methods.

Follow-up is a key part of professional service, making sure the deterrents remain effective and checking for any signs of new activity. Reliable companies won’t just leave you after the first visit—they’ll help maintain a woodpecker-free environment through continued support.

Get Expert Woodpecker Removal with AAAC Wildlife Removal

Don’t let woodpeckers turn your home into their next project. AAAC Wildlife Removal provides safe, legal, and effective woodpecker control services tailored to your property’s needs.

Call AAAC Wildlife Removal today to schedule your inspection and get lasting solutions from licensed wildlife professionals. Let us help you protect your home while keeping things humane and compliant!

Conclusion

When woodpeckers start damaging your property, calling the right professionals is the safest and smartest move. Licensed wildlife control companies and bird control specialists know how to handle these protected birds using humane, legal methods that actually work.

Instead of risking fines or worsening the problem with DIY solutions, rely on experts who can assess your situation and create a long-term prevention plan. Protect your home while respecting local wildlife—it’s a win for both you and the birds.