The yellow-bellied sapsucker, a woodpecker, damages trees in early spring while migrating north for the summer. Previously damaged trees should be protected at this time to reduce further damage. Most woodpeckers rely on insects and tree sap as their primary sources of food. Many woodpeckers feed almost entirely on insects, finding a majority of them beneath the bark on dead tree limbs and in other situations where their feeding is considered beneficial. However, the yellow-bellied sapsucker relies on the sap of trees for over half of its food, with the balance of its diet consisting of insects, berries, and fruits.
Sapsuckers overwinter in Central America and southern North America, and spend the summer in Canada and northern U.S. During April and May, these birds migrate through northeastern Illinois while migrating north for the summer. In the fall, during September and October, they once again pass through Illinois migrating south for the winter. Pines, spruces, birch, and fruit trees are most commonly attacked and individual trees can be attacked year after year. The damage consists of rows of neatly spaced horizontal or vertical holes in tree trunks and branches. Rarely does the woodpecker kill a tree in this area, but its feeding may weaken the tree, making it more susceptible to secondary disease and insect problems.
To reduce damage from these birds, hang strips of aluminum foil, pie tins, or other objects that flash light and/or make noise in the trees. Previously damaged areas of the tree can be wrapped with burlap or other protective material during April, May, September and October to prevent further damage.
Do not leave wraps on the tree during the summer since moisture accumulating under them may encourage diseases problems to develop.
Remember that the Migratory Bird Act protects most birds. This federal law and its associated international treaty make it unlawful to kill or otherwise harm woodpeckers.
Try to keep the tree as healthy as possible. Supply an inch of water in the spring as trees are leafing out or producing new needles if rainfall doesn't amount to the inch. Water the trees throughout the summer, supplying an inch at least every two weeks, if rainfall is nonexistent.
Consider fertilizing the trees in the fall to help them recover for the following year.
Source: David J. Robson, Extension Educator, Horticulture, drobson@uiuc.edu
