Mountain Ash Tree Has A Series Of Holes On Trunk

Question From: J. Lynch - Traverse City, Michigan, United States
Q: My mountain ash has a series of holes about 4 feet up the trunk. Is this a borer or a wood pecker. No saw dust around the base. Tree is oozing sap. Any suggestions on controlling this and saving the tree would be welcome.
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A: That's a woodpecker at work. Amazing, isn't it. That damage is very severe and I doubt you can save the tree. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy