Pigeons Nesting Under Solar Panels

The space between the roof and solar panels (available after installation) can be an appealing nesting place for pigeons and other birds. Unfortunately, these birds can cause various damages, leading to reduced efficiency and electrical hazards around the property.

Many property owners dealing with pigeons nesting under solar panels struggle to find an effective solution to fix the issue. However, prevention is always better than finding a cure – and it is always wise to implement some pigeon proofing measures to mitigate the risks and protect your solar panels.

How To Stop Pigeons From Nesting Under Solar Panels

Install Physical Barriers

Installing physical barriers is the most effective way to deter pigeons from nesting beneath your solar panels. The solar panels pigeon proofing method strives to block access to the spaces beneath the panels. That leaves no space for the birds to establish their nests and cause potential damage to your property.

Physical barriers can range from simple spikes (repellent strips) to sophisticated structures such as netting and meshes. Spikes are designed to create an uncomfortable landing space for the birds, while meshes and netting prevent them from crawling to spaces under the panels.

Use Visual Deterrents

Another method you can use to prevent pigeons from nesting beneath your solar panels is installing visual deterrents. Unlike physical barriers, these structures leverage the bird’s sensitivity to their surroundings, rendering the space under the panels less appealing for nesting. Visual deterrents are designed to create an environment that discourages roosting by exploiting the bird’s natural behaviours and instincts.

Visual deterrents can range from simple structures like reflective surfaces to more sophisticated options like predator decoys. You can install reflective surfaces around the solar panels to disorient the birds. Alternatively, introduce decoys that resemble pigeon’s natural predators, including hawks and owls.

Provide Nesting Alternatives for The Birds

While pigeons cause damage to our solar panels, they are only searching for a comfortable and safe space to nest. All the other methods involve keeping away the birds from your panels and property in general, but have you considered a more balanced and humane solution?

Providing an alternative nesting space for the pigeons is another effective way to redirect them away from your panels. These alternatives can include birdhouses and nesting boxes installed in nearby areas. It is essential to ensure the structures mimic the safety and comfort that the area beneath the panels offers. In addition, place the alternative nesting spaces in areas where the birds typically perch.

Conclusion

A proactive approach to pigeon-proofing your solar panels is essential to preserving their functionality and integrity. Some of the best ways to effectively deter these birds from nesting beneath your solar panels include installing physical barriers and visual deterrents and providing alternative nesting spaces. Using physical barriers, such as meshes and spikes, is the most ideal option because it effectively keeps the birds out of the space beneath the panels. However, you can combine multiple proofing methods to create a more comprehensive approach.