Holes in Tree Trunk: Woodpecker or Squirrel Nest

Two 3-inch holes with bark removed in a perfect circle appear on main trunk and a large branch. Owner asks if it’s disease or animal damage.

Animal Origin

Likely a woodpecker (nest cavity) or squirrel. Usually in older trees with soft/decayed heartwood. Not a health threat.

Leave alone – no harm to tree.
If accessible and unoccupied, fill with expanding foam (aerosol).
Fertilize with 10-10-10 at 1 lb/inch trunk diameter to boost vigor against decay fungi.

Trees: Water Oak Borer Damage: Insecticide Treatment and Tree Health; Filling a Hole in a Ligustrum Hedge; Borer Infestation in a Mature Pine: Treatment and Wound Management; Large Oak Cavity with Standing Water: Drain & Foam, Don't Cement; Tree Hole Repair: Don't Plug, Don't Seal, Let Nature Heal; Hole in Ancient Oak's Crotch: Leave It Alone; Pine Planting Failure: Wire Basket Left On, Hole Too Small; Managing Cavities in Poor Compartmentalizers Like Hackberry; Rescuing a Root-Bound Crabapple Tree: Diagnosis and Recovery Steps; Pileated Woodpecker Holes in Your Tree: Should You Worry?

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