Woodpeckers feed on insects like carpenter ants and carpenter bees that spend their time inside wood, so they have evolved to have sharp, sturdy beaks with which to peck and drill rapidly at trees, creating cavities that allow them to snatch insects for a quick meal. Woodpeckers will also create cavities inside trees to make their nests. During the springtime, male woodpeckers will attract mates and mark their territory by pecking loudly at any hard surface they can find. Woodpeckers can actually be beneficial in the yard, as they are natural pest control agents that feed on insects. Problems with woodpeckers arise when they start drilling holes on the sides of houses, on decks, and on deck furniture in search of food. Additionally, woodpeckers may start pecking on gutters, downspouts, metal eaves, and your home’s siding during their mating season. Woodpecker damage doesn’t just cause unsightly damage to your property, it can also leave your home more vulnerable to water leaks and pest intrusions. Additionally, the actual drilling process can be extremely loud and annoying, and may even disrupt your sleep schedule.