Which Birds Cause Harm To Trees in Pittsburgh?

Tree Service Experts Share Advice to Protect Trees from Birds.

How Can Birds Impact Your Tree Health?

While Pittsburgh is home to many beautiful native bird species that support local ecosystems, some feathered visitors can actually pose a threat to the health and stability of your trees. Whether you manage a residential landscape or simply enjoy the greenery in your yard, it’s helpful to know which birds can cause problems and how to recognize the signs of damage.

In this guide, we’ll explore the types of birds most commonly associated with tree harm, explain how their behavior can affect overall tree health, and share tips on how to protect your landscape throughout the year.

Birds Can Be Both Friends and Foes to Your Trees

Birds often benefit trees by eating insects and helping with pollination and seed dispersion. However, in some cases, their behavior, especially nesting, pecking, and roosting, can lead to serious structural or health issues. The impact depends on the bird species, the type of tree, and the tree’s overall health to begin with.

Common Birds That Harm Trees in Pittsburgh

1. Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers are among the most well-known culprits when it comes to tree damage. These birds drill into bark in search of insects or to create nesting cavities.

• Damage caused: Small to large holes in the trunk or limbs, which can weaken the structural integrity of the tree and leave it vulnerable to disease and pests.
• Tree types affected: Dead or dying trees are usually targeted, but healthy trees (especially pine, spruce, and birch) aren’t always safe.
• Long-term impact: Repeated pecking can compromise tree bark, leading to decay or infection.

2. Sapsuckers

Sapsuckers are a type of woodpecker that feed on tree sap by drilling shallow holes in neat rows around a trunk.

• Damage caused: Repeated tapping causes “sap wells” and weakens the bark over time. This can stunt growth or expose the tree to fungal infections.
• Tree types affected: Maple, birch, apple, and other thin-barked trees.
  Long-term impact: Heavy feeding can girdle a tree (cut off its nutrient flow), which may eventually lead to tree death.

3. European Starlings

Though they may seem harmless, these invasive birds often outcompete native species and can become a nuisance in urban tree canopies.

• Damage caused: Nesting in cavities or branch forks, their droppings are acidic and can damage leaves and bark. Large flocks can also compact soil and break small limbs.
• Tree types affected: Broadleaf deciduous trees and fruit-bearing trees.
• Long-term impact: Reduced tree vigor and increased susceptibility to pest infestations.
  
  
  

4. Crows and Grackles

These intelligent and social birds often form large flocks that gather in treetops.

• Damage caused: Although they don’t peck bark, their weight and sheer numbers can break branches and compact the soil around their roots. Their acidic droppings can also cause foliar damage and nutrient imbalances.
• Tree types affected: Mature deciduous trees, especially in parks or neighborhoods with tall canopies.
• Long-term impact: Weakened upper branches and reduced tree health due to stress.

5. Pigeons

Common in urban environments, such as downtown Pittsburgh, pigeons often roost in large groups in the crooks and hollows of old trees.

• Damage caused: Their droppings can spread disease and cause bark deterioration. Nesting material can also block water flow in rain gutters and tree crotches.
• Tree types affected: Any tree with large branches or natural hollows.
  Long-term impact: Moisture buildup and rot in areas where droppings and debris collect.

How Bird Activity Affects Tree Health

Even if birds aren’t causing direct harm, their behavior can indirectly create conditions that threaten your trees. These risks include:

• Fungal infections from exposed bark wounds.
• Insect infestations entering through pecked holes.
• Stunted growth in young trees due to repeated pecking or nesting disturbances.
• Structural damage to branches and limbs from repeated roosting or heavy flocking.

Signs Your Tree May Be Suffering From Bird Damage

If you’re not sure whether birds are harming your trees, look for these warning signs:

• Holes or drilling patterns in the bark
• Pools of sap or sticky residue around the trunk
• Sudden browning of branches or leaves
• Mold or fungus near wound sites
• Bark peeling or flaking in unusual patterns
• Excessive bird droppings or nesting materials

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a tree risk assessment with a certified arborist. Early intervention can prevent further damage or the need for complete tree removal.

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Can You Prevent Bird Damage?

While it’s impossible to stop birds from entering your yard entirely, there are a few bird-friendly strategies you can use to help minimize damage to your trees. Reflective deterrents, like shiny tape, aluminum foil strips, or bird discs, can discourage birds from perching or pecking in vulnerable areas.

For fruit trees or young saplings, protective netting can be highly effective at keeping birds from nesting or feeding on tender bark and fruit. You can also create inviting alternatives by setting up birdhouses, feeders, and birdbaths in areas away from your trees, redirecting their attention elsewhere in the yard.

Timing is essential, too; try to avoid heavy tree trimming during nesting season to prevent disturbing active nests and stressing both the birds and your trees. Always check local and federal wildlife regulations before attempting to deter or remove native bird species or their nests.

Protecting Tree Health Year-Round

The best defense against bird-related damage is a healthy, well-maintained tree. Trees that are stressed, diseased, or improperly pruned are more attractive to birds like woodpeckers and sapsuckers.

To keep your landscape in top shape:

• Schedule regular tree inspections
• Invest in preventive tree pruning
• Monitor for early signs of disease
• Improve soil health with plant health care services
• Act early on structural issues with tree trimming or cabling

Need Help Managing Tree Health in Pittsburgh?

Greater Pitt Tree Service is proud to be the go-to tree care expert in Pittsburgh, PA. Our certified arborists understand the local bird populations, tree species, and seasonal conditions that impact your trees. Whether you’re worried about woodpecker holes, unhealthy limbs, or long-term tree health, we’re here to help with expert diagnosis, professional tree pruning, and ongoing care plans.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or tree risk assessment.