People in North Carolina, Here’s Why Your Property Is Suddenly Getting Damaged

It looks like a criminal has returned to town. Reports are flying in about a mysterious vandal, described as short, decked out in black, white, and a bright red cap. Damage is piling up across neighborhoods, but the culprit isn’t what you think.

Broken Windshields and Mirrors: A Community on Edge

For the past few weeks, people across North Carolina have noticed shattered car mirrors, cracked windshields, and strange dents appearing out of nowhere. Some residents even managed to snap photos of the repeat offender caught red-handed. With vehicles taking a beating, many believed someone was intentionally targeting property, but the truth is even stranger.
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The Unexpected Criminal

The real culprit? A pileated woodpecker. These crow-sized birds are unmistakable with their bright red crests and loud, hammering sounds. At this time of year, male woodpeckers become extremely territorial. Seeing their reflection in car mirrors and windows, they mistake it for a rival bird and attack aggressively, trying to chase it away.

Experts say it’s all about love — and war. Spring is peak mating season, and these birds will defend their territory against anything they perceive as competition. Unfortunately for your car, that means mirrors, chrome, and glass are prime targets.

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How to Protect Your Property

If you’re trying to avoid expensive repairs, consider covering your vehicle mirrors with bags or cloth when parked outside. Removing reflections can make your car less attractive to these determined birds. You can also use decals, car covers, or move your vehicle into a garage if possible.

While the pileated woodpecker may not be a criminal mastermind, it certainly knows how to leave a trail of destruction in its wake. Stay alert, North Carolina — it looks like "the vandal" is back for another season.