Birch tree looking unhealthy

[Ldubs_12]

We moved into our house about 3 years ago and since moving in our birch tree has looked unhealthy. It is closely located to a larger shade tree and it appears that the previous owners trimmed it fairly often to prevent contact with the house close by. The tree itself has very few leaves and I noticed one area pictured below that is starting to rot where a previous branch was removed. Is there anything I can do to get this birch tree to look more healthy?

 

[Del_]

It looks like some self girdling is going on at just above ground level. It's a shame that smaller leader wasn't removed a decade or more ago.

 

[Raintree]

I agree with Del, the smaller leader is being choked out by the dominant stem. Can't be fixed, best to prune out. Being a gray birch these trees are short lived. Also a favorite host of the bronze birch borer.

 

[Ldubs_12]

I agree with Del, the smaller leader is being choked out by the dominant stem. Can't be fixed, best to prune out. Being a gray birch these trees are short lived. Also a favorite host of the bronze birch borer.

Thanks for the reply. I may just go away with the tree in the upcoming year based on the responses and start tending a new tree. I do enjoy birch trees so I may look for a suitable replacement.

 

[Ldubs_12]

It looks like some self girdling is going on at just above ground level. It's a shame that smaller leader wasn't removed a decade or more ago.

Interesting. I do see what you mean. Based on how the tree is looking and what appears to be very little I can do about it at this point, I will likely have it removed completely.