I have a few very big holes plus many smaller holes in three cedar trees, largest hole 14" by 8". Family tell me a large pilliated woodpecker and two smaller fellows were chowing down on carpenter ants for two days while I was away last April (north of Toronto).
I see that you were discussing pine specifically so my concern may be a bit off topic but I think it's relevant,regardless of the type of tree or reason for the wholes, I hate to take the trees down even though they are not very healthy and clearly carpenter ants have taken over (and I worry about where the ants will head next if I do remove the trees)..my question is this; is it better for the tree to leave the holes open or is there some action that should be taken to fill the holes and if so, with what?
I have considered cutting them from their 40 & 50 ft. heights to 15 or 20 feet to avoid major damage if they fall, but the holes would remain.
Thanks
Linda
