The Woodpecker Dilemma: Dealing with Noisy Intruders in Fort Myers
Living in Fort Myers, Florida, comes with its fair share of challenges, from hurricanes to pesky critters. For one homeowner near Fort Myers, the ongoing noise issue caused by woodpeckers taking up residence on her roof has become a serious concern.
The Damage Caused by Woodpeckers
Rene Stella, the owner of a Fort Myers painting company, was called in to repair and paint damage caused by the persistent birds. Stella described the situation, saying, “They make holes like this everywhere. I mean, there were issues with the house in some areas that we’ve fixed because there’s nothing in there.”
The woodpeckers had burrowed into the house’s decorative foam, creating holes and causing a commotion that lasted for months. Unfortunately, all woodpeckers are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it difficult to remove them without the proper permits.
The Legal Challenges and Restrictions
Due to the federal protection of woodpeckers, any attempts to remove or scare them away without a permit is illegal. This has caused a dilemma for Stella, as she is unable to continue work on her home while the birds are present. She explained, “We can’t cover it up because now they have some birds in there. So, I think they’re restricted, and it’s not a good idea to shut it down.”
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, woodpeckers with active nests cannot be disturbed without proper authorization. This means that Stella will have to wait until the birds have left on their own before proceeding with repairs.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Help
In cases like Stella’s, where woodpeckers have caused significant damage to a property, seeking professional help is crucial. Hiring a wildlife removal specialist who is experienced in dealing with protected species can ensure that the problem is addressed legally and ethically.
By following the proper procedures and obtaining the necessary permits, homeowners can safely and effectively resolve issues caused by woodpeckers without running afoul of the law. It may take time and patience, but in the end, it is the best way to protect both the property and the wildlife.
