Woodpecker Defense -Lawn Ornament

Occasionally you just need a deterrent to bad behavior from nature. I recently had a woodpecker decide to make a meal out of some insects that had invaded the wood trim of my house. I'm usually pretty good at maintenance around the home but these two locations were not easily accessible and apparently got infested. My son noticed the persistent "rat-a-tat tat" from his room and repairs were quickly done. Not to be outdone the woodpecker was still making a nuisance around the neighborhood. With lots of forest available I decided he just needed a little persuasion to look elsewhere for a snack. My research came up with their supposed fear of birds of prey, especially owls, who could be mimicked with large shiny owl looking eyes. My daughter uses up copies of her music CDs at ridiculous rate so I always have a supply of used CDs looking for a purpose. I had the "light bulb" idea moment! Read on to see how easy this is and if it really worked.

CDs - used, new, advertising CDs, your least favorite artist, any will do.

Glue - Any good glue should work. I used super glue because it was handy, easy and drys instantly.

Drill - You just need a hole in the edge. Size isn't important but CDs are brittle and can break so a drill is best and be careful!

String - Again, anything will work. I used a piece of weed eater string because it never seems to deteriorate outside and is tough.

Any CD will work. Most have a metallic side that works as a shiny mirror that sparkles in the sun. Scary for woodpeckers and pleasant for the neighbors.

I used super glue but any would probably work. Just a few drops will hold two CDs face to face. Be sure to glue with the shiny sides out! Actually a single CD would probably work but would have a pretty side and a not-so-pretty side to twirl in the breeze. Just use two.

Drill a small hole in the edge of the CD for a string. A drill works best but a sharp knife and a little skill can bore through the soft plastic. Be careful. CDs are brittle and can break with sharp edges.

I chose to use several CDs (cause I have PLENTY!). Just string a few and hang from a branch.

Well, the wood pecker did move on but I can still hear and see him occasionally at a dead,rotting tree in the woods beside our house. He does avoid our area but maybe I just removed his buffet. Anyway the shiny, twirling object is entertaining in our garden and makes for a conversation starter when someone notices. Make one and enjoy!