Overview

• At least 25 vehicles in Rockport, Massachusetts, have been damaged by a pileated woodpecker since March, according to local reports.
• The bird's aggression stems from its mating-season behavior, during which it mistakes reflections in mirrors and windshields for rival males.
• Residents have shared viral posts documenting the woodpecker's activity and have taken steps such as folding in mirrors or covering them with bags and scarves to prevent further damage.
• Experts note that the mating season for pileated woodpeckers, which are crow-sized birds with a distinctive red crest, typically lasts through June.
• Community members are handling the situation with humor and resilience, acknowledging the challenges of coexisting with wildlife.