Humane woodpecker deterrence and damage prevention for homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities across Alberta.
Woodpeckers are a protected species under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, making professional management essential. Animal Damage Control provides legally compliant, humane woodpecker deterrence and exclusion services that protect your property without harming the birds.
Woodpecker damage can be surprisingly costly. These birds excavate holes in wood siding, cedar shakes, stucco, and even foam insulation, causing structural damage, moisture infiltration, and significant repair bills. Drumming on metal surfaces — gutters, vents, and HVAC equipment — can also create persistent noise disturbances.
The most common woodpecker species causing problems in Alberta include the Northern Flicker, Downy Woodpecker, and Hairy Woodpecker. Each species has different habitat preferences and behaviours, which is why a professional assessment is the first step to an effective solution.
ADC's woodpecker management programs combine visual deterrents, physical exclusion, and habitat modification to discourage woodpeckers from targeting your property. We do not use lethal control for woodpeckers — our approach focuses on making your building less attractive and providing alternative foraging and nesting opportunities nearby.
Our technicians are trained in working at heights and can access difficult areas of your building safely. We provide detailed reports documenting damage, species identification, and recommended management actions — essential for insurance claims and strata management.
Woodpeckers are federally protected. Our methods comply with the Migratory Birds Convention Act and all provincial regulations.
We use deterrents and exclusion rather than lethal control, protecting both your property and local wildlife populations.
Correct species identification ensures the right deterrent strategy is applied for lasting results.
We advise on repair materials and methods that are less attractive to woodpeckers, preventing repeat damage.
We work on strata complexes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities with minimal disruption to occupants.
Full written reports for insurance, strata councils, and property managers.
A certified ADC technician visits your property to identify the woodpecker species, assess the extent of damage, and determine what is attracting the birds.
We design a deterrent program tailored to your building type, the species involved, and the specific areas being targeted.
Our team installs visual deterrents, physical exclusion materials, and any other recommended measures safely and professionally.
We monitor effectiveness and adjust the program if needed to ensure woodpeckers are no longer targeting your property.
Yes. Woodpeckers are protected under the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act. It is illegal to harm, kill, or destroy the nests of migratory birds without a permit. ADC uses only legal, humane deterrent methods.
Woodpeckers peck buildings for three main reasons: foraging for insects living in the wood, excavating nest cavities, or territorial drumming. Identifying the reason is key to choosing the right deterrent.
Drumming and territorial activity peaks in spring (March–May). Foraging damage can occur year-round but is more common in late summer and fall when insects are active near the surface of wood.
Stationary visual deterrents have limited effectiveness on their own, as woodpeckers quickly habituate to them. ADC uses a combination of deterrents and exclusion for lasting results.
We aim to schedule assessments within 2–3 business days. Emergency response is available for severe or ongoing damage situations.
Available 24/7 for wildlife emergencies across Alberta and surrounding areas.
(877) 446-0204Request a QuoteContact Animal Damage Control today for a professional assessment and humane, effective solution.