Squirrels and Birds Peeling Shagbark Hickory Bark: Is It Harmful?

Question: My huge shagbark hickory is shedding bark all over the deck. Squirrels and birds seem to be stripping it. Are they after insects? Will this damage the tree?

Answer

What you're seeing is typical wildlife behavior. Woodpeckers often peel bark to reach insects; squirrels may gnaw bark for nutrients or nesting material. Shagbark hickory naturally has thick, exfoliating bark, so this activity rarely harms the tree unless the cambium layer is exposed.

Management Tips

• Woodpeckers: If insects are the draw, a trunk spray of Malathion (or similar) can reduce the insect population, discouraging the birds.
• Squirrels: Harder to deter, but their interest usually wanes as the season progresses.
• No action needed: In most cases, the tree tolerates this minor bark loss without health impact.

Rest easy—your hickory is in no danger from this natural interaction.