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Vertebrate: Sapsucker damage

last review date: 2025-06-28 12:21

Horizontal holes on birch tree trunk caused by sapsuckers.

Sapsucker damage on birch
Photo by: C.R. Foss

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 to download a free PDF.

Management Options

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

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

None recommended

Chemical Management

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

None recommended

Additional Images

Red-breasted sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) is common throughout western Washington
Photo by: K.W. Zobrist

Red-breasted sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber)

Horizontal holes caused by sapsucker on birch tree trunk.

Sapsucker damage on birch
Photo by: C.R. Foss

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