How can sapsuckers damage trees?

Sapsuckers, which are members of the woodpecker family (Picidae), damage trees primarily by drilling neat, close rows of holes through the bark to feed on sap and insects.12

While these wounds typically heal rapidly in healthy trees, the damage can become problematic because these openings serve as entry points for disease agents. By creating these holes, sapsuckers may occasionally facilitate the spread of tree diseases.3

It is important to note that while these birds can conflict with human interests, they remain an integral part of the natural ecological balance, as they also consume insects and serve other roles within their environments.2