Get matched with top bird control service pros in Plain, WI

When woodpeckers start banging on your walls or roof, they are probably looking for insects to eat, storing nuts for winter, drilling a hole to make a nest, or communicating with other birds to establish territory or find a mate.

The size of the hole can help determine the reason for the pecking. Small irregular holes are a result of insect hunts. Acorn holes are more consistently sized and often fitted with a nut in the middle. Nest holes are large and have rounded edges. If the bird is pecking to mark its territory or attract a mate, it may leave dents rather than holes, and the noise will stop when the mating season starts in spring.

The best time of year to remove bats is autumn until spring. In fact, many states have restrictions on bat removal, mandating it to start sometime in August and go up until May. For some states, the removal period stops in March. Your pest control pro should know of any restrictions and can help you pick an optimal time for removal.

Birds eat grass seed for one simple reason—it’s delicious! The seeds are rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Seeds are also high in energy, so humans eat trail mix loaded with seeds and nuts for long-distance activities. Grass seed, when unprotected, is also exceptionally easy to access.

Birds are often averse to certain strong scents. For instance, the odor of predator urine, such as that from foxes or hawks, can deter them. Similarly, birds may dislike the pungent aromas of garlic, onions, and chili peppers. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus can also be effective in keeping birds away. However, it's important to note that individual bird species might react differently to these scents, so it might require some experimentation to find the most effective repellent for your specific situation.