'Attack spider' may be ultimate weapon against woodpeckers

KUSA - A California company may have come up with the ultimate way for homeowners to finally get rid of woodpeckers, along the thousands of dollars damage they cause.

Each spring, woodpeckers arrive in Colorado and become a menace to homeowners who have stucco or wood homes. It is illegal under federal law to kill or trap migratory birds, but homeowners who have to patch all those woodpecker holes can sometimes be driven to distraction. Many deterrents are suggested such as fake owls and foil streamers, but most fail to work.

Along comes "Birds-Away Attack Spider," an animated toy spider about the size of a dinner plate. When it hears the sound of a woodpecker's tapping, it goes into action. It drops about 18 inches down a string, makes rattling noises and vibrates. The company claims it's selling 2,000 spiders a week.

"It works great," said Kristian Blew, a homeowner in Arapahoe County. He purchased seven of the devices for about $15 apiece. "It startles the neighbors, but it also startles the woodpeckers. I would say it's the most successful thing I've tried."

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