Pigeons love Solar Panels for nesting

Pigeons have a reputation for not being the smartest birds in the garden, but they weren’t slow to discover that solar panels provide ideal nest locations… and the rapid expansion in the popularity of the panels in recent years has meant that pigeons have been left spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a nest site.

But if they’ve decided your rooftop is their ideal home in the sun, then their presence can not only lead to your roof quickly looking unsightly, it can also lead to blocked guttering – thanks to fouling and nesting material getting washed down the roof during heavy rainfall – and before too long, these blockages can lead to expensive repair costs.

So the number of pigeon-related enquiries we are now receiving has gone through the [solar panelled] roof.

How to stop pigeons from nesting on your roof

The best protection is prevention, and as pigeons are scavengers the first thing to do is to make your garden less attractive to them: make it look a feeding wasteland (however green), rather than pigeon take away heaven.

Pigeons will feed on nearly anything, so make sure there are no food scraps left out or allowed to be pulled from food waste bins (which seagulls also target). Store rubbish in bins with securely fitted lids so that pigeons can’t gain access to the contents. If you store pet food outside, make sure you do so in strong containers with fitted lids and ensure that other materials such as twigs and leaves are removed from around your property, making it harder for pigeons to build their nests.

How to bird proof your solar panels

There are a variety of solutions to try, including bird spikes and spring wires, which are both humane deterrents that work by making it hard for the pigeons to land near the solar panels, but the best method to prevent birds from nesting in your roof is to seal off the area using netting or wire mesh.

Why do birds nest under solar panels?

The quick answer is they want a nest where it will be sheltered and warm. A solar panel offers protection from poor weather and potential predators.

Why is that a problem?

There are two problems: the first is a potential health risk, from the bacteria found in bird excrement, and the general mess pigeons cause, which can damage the solar panels’ surface or components. Another issue is noise, which can be really annoying if you want to sleep.

What to do if pigeons are already nesting under your solar panels

Install mesh around the panels when the pigeon is hunting for food to stop them returning.

When should you act?

As soon as possible! We can help you with your solar panel proofing needs. Contact us today