ARE WOODPECKERS ATTRACTED BY THE SOUND MADE BY HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES?
backyardwildlifeconnection by Terry W.Johnson
Every so often people ask me if woodpeckers are attracted to the sounds generated by household appliances. Supposedly, the faint buzzing sounds made by electrical appliances mimic the sounds made by insects. If a woodpecker detects these sounds, it excavated holes attempting to feed on the hidden bounty of insects.
Whenever I am asked this question, my answer is, “NO!” I have never seen any evidence that this is the case.
Many other factors appear to play a role in why woodpeckers damage certain houses. According to Cornell University, a study involving more than 1,000 houses in Ithaca, New York revealed that the type of siding used on a house plays a significant role in whether or not woodpeckers damage a home.
The study found the siding that is most susceptible to woodpecker damage is grooved plywood. In addition, researchers found that earth-toned homes stand a greater chance of sustaining woodpecker damage than those painted in brighter colors.
