Q: I have a large pileated woodpecker that has decided the top on my convertible should have a lot of holes in it. Is there something I can do to scare it off without causing the bird any harm? -- Carie

A: I sympathize with your woodpecker problem, Carie. I have a friend whose car's windshield wipers were attacked by a vulture.

And I admire you for trying to stop the woodpecker's behavior in a humane way. Too many people harm animals that are causing problems rather than getting to the root of the problems -- and harming wildlife can result in fines and other legal action.

So instead of taking matters into your own hands, people should direct all nuisance wildlife questions to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The FWC Web site offers a page of tips on what to do about nuisance woodpeckers. You may get more help by calling your local office of the FWC directly.

If you don't live in Florida, then please try your state's equivalent of the FWC or your local extension office.

Hope this helps.

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