How To Keep Yellow Belly Sap Suckers From Drilling Holes In Tree

Question From: S. Rhoads - Boyne City, Michigan, United States
Q: Yellow Belly Sap Suckers are drilling holes in the mountain ash trunk. I was told to treat the tree systemically, but I don't know what insect I'm treating and don't know what product to purchase. Any advise? Thank you.

A: These birds go after tree sap. Wrap the area with burlap. A light covering of a sticky substance such as Tanglefoot will keep them away. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy