gila woodpecker pecking metal

Is there some special reason why there has been a gila woodpecker pecking at the metal edge around my chimney top? I have a metal vent and edging that he seems to love but the pecking is very loud. I know they peck at wood for food but why my chimney cap?

Most woodpeckers will "sound" or peck at objects as a way to establish their territory as explained in our Woodpecker Control article. Gila woodpeckers are no different. Most likely to happen in the spring, sounding will be done  throughout the day and is a way for this bird to communicate. To stop the loud behavior, set out some Bird Discs on either side of the vent. This is usually enough to repel them and keep them away from the home.