There probably needs to be some kind of soft spacer between the pecker
boards and the base - I'd probably try nylon washers (because I have
some) but felt or folded fabric would probably work, too.

I don't know what these critter like for perching - I'd be inclined to
try a scrap of indoor/outdoor carpeting.

[ Always a pleasure to suggest work for someone else ]

--
Morris Dovey
DeSoto Solar
DeSoto, Iowa USA
http://www.iedu.com/DeSoto/