Woodpecker damage on Dryvit
To many homeowners, woodpeckers are a serious problem. While most structures impacted by woodpeckers are made of wood, woodpecker damage on Dryvit does occur as well.
Dryvit is a type of exterior finish that has some advantages over other building materials such as insulation quality and ease of installation (see Dryvit). Unfortunately, for homes and structures made with this material, it is vulnerable to woodpecker activity. The video below shows what a flicker can do to the structure. This homeowner suffered a significant amount of damage and despite the use of non-lethal techniques, ultimately had to obtain a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Bird Depredation permit in order to stop the damage.
Woodpeckers are protected in the U.S. by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Killing of a woodpecker without proper authorization can result in severe civil and/or criminal penalties. In order to obtain a bird depredation permit, owners must demonstrate that non-lethal techniques failed and that the damage is ongoing and thus requiring the use of lethal control. Practically speaking, you must make a case to convict the bird of actions severe enough to justify the death penalty. There is a cost to the depredation permit.
Fortunately, most woodpecker damage on dryvit or structures can be resolved with non-lethal techniques. Netting, flashers, scary spiders etc. can all be part of the non-lethal method to control woodpecker damage. For additional info get a copy of this publication from the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACE, is the owner of Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. He helps people restore their balance with nature through publishing, training, consulting, and the internet. He has published numerous articles in trade and academic publications available at {Stephen’s Academia.edu Page} along with several books {WCC Store}). Listen to his podcast “Living the Wild Life” at {Pest Geek Podcast}. Please subscribe to {Stephen’s YouTube Channel} He is a sought after speaker and trainer. If you would like to have Stephen speak at your event or use his consultation services, send an e-mail to wildlifecontrolconsultant@gmail.com. Copyright All postings are the property of Stephen M. Vantassel and Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. Text (not images) may be reprinted in non-profit publications provided that the author and website URL is included. If images wish to be used, explicit and written permission must be obtained from Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC.