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Caption: Sapsucker damage on birch

Photo by: C.R. Foss

Vertebrate : Sapsucker damage

(revision date: 2/28/2022)

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Biology

Rows of horizontally oriented holes in trunks and branches of various types of trees are typical feeding sites for sapsuckers (woodpeckers). Mild to moderate damage usually has little long-term impact on the health of the tree. Severe damage may weaken trees, making them more susceptible to wind damage. For more information, see WSU Publication FS057E Recognizing Sapsucker Damage on Your Trees.

Management Options

Non-Chemical Management

None recommended

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides

Images

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Caption: Sapsucker damage on birch Photo by: C.R. Foss
Caption: Sapsucker damage on pine Photo by: R.S. Byther
Caption: Red-breasted sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) is common throughout western Washington Photo by: K.W. Zobrist
Caption: Red-breasted sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) Photo by: K.W. Zobrist
Caption: Sapsucker damage on birch Photo by: C.R. Foss

WSU Extension

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