woodpecker made nest (hole) in trunk of large maple. I think it is a marsh maple, seem very prominent in our area. We covered the hole once babies were out, but not sure what to do now. we are only at house part time so Mommy had a field day. Tree itself seems to be declining - prior owner cut off several lg limbs before we were in house - and now some more are showing stress. Sister tree near it seems in better shape but not sure what we should be doing. Thank you

The following is the information on the 'plant diagnostic' section of our website concerning woodpeckers and sapsuckers

http://plantdiagnostics.umd.edu/level3.cfm?causeID=27

The tree is probably declining for other reasons.  It is possible that the tree has borers or some type of root problem.  It is difficult to say with the information provided.  The bottom line is is that healthy trees can withstand woodpecker activity.  

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