Sandy Ricardo writes: I have a woodpecker who is slowly pecking one spot on our wood siding. What can I do? 

Hi Sandy–Unfortunately, structures covered in wood siding are a paradise for all 5 species of woodpeckers in Ohio, and cedar is especially desirable.  There are several ways to cover areas if there are only small spots of exposed wood, otherwise, shiny (scary) deterrents may be helpful. If you need help, contact me. There are many variables to consider when trying to deter / exclude woodpeckers. 

Lisa Fosco

Director of Animal Care 

Ohio Wildlife Center 

614-761-0134

Michael Ayers writes:  

The house I purchased 3.5 years ago had wood peckers nesting in the redwood siding.  There was evidence that previous owners had tried to simply cover the hole which of course led to several additional adjacent holes. I read an article that suggested hanging something shiny in the immediate area so I taped several strips of aluminum foil to a piece of plywood which I nailed to the siding and IT WORKED!  I continue to leave this in place because I do not know how long wood peckers live or how good there memory might be. Wind-blown strips occasionally need to be replaced.  :-P