10 Ways How to Stop Pigeons from Nesting Under Solar Panels

Pigeons are a common disturbing threat to solar panels. Pigeon nesting can cause long-term damage to your PV system, hampering its functionality and life expectancy. But don’t panic; there are trusted and tested pigeon-proofing methods you can adopt to protect your panels. Our article will discuss 10 ways how to stop pigeons from nesting under solar panels using these methods. Here, you will learn all other aspects of preventing the nesting of pigeons under solar panels. So, are you planning to repel the pigeons from your solar panels most effectively? This will give you a clear idea about the best methods. Let’s dive in.

10 Effective Ways How to Stop Pigeons from Nesting Under Solar Panels

There are several crucial steps to stop pigeons from nesting under PV panels. Let’s follow some steps and apply in our rooftop solar panel installation.

1. Install Bird Mesh

Bird mesh is one of the most efficient and cost-effective bird proofing solutions. It can significantly stop pigeons from nesting under solar panels. Bird mesh is made of UV-resistant materials like stainless steel or polyethylene to cope with harsh weather conditions. It can prevent pigeons and other pests from invading your solar system. Additionally, it can protect from dirt, leaves, and debris. Thus, solar panel bird proofing mesh can reduce fire hazards and maintain cleanliness. 

Your bird mesh is an eco-friendly alternative to other chemical repellents and exterminations. You can easily install this low-tech solution using solar panel mesh clips. It does not damage your panel anyway but provides long-term protection. Another great thing is that bird mesh can thoroughly blend with your solar panel. It helps to maintain the aesthetics of your area. Grab it if you want a good-looking, low-impact, low-maintenance, and durable solution.

2. Install Roof Spikes or Wires

Spikes provide additional protection for your solar panel if you combine it with solar mesh. Bird spikes are rows of long, needle-like, flexible spikes of stainless steel or polycarbonate. They come in different sizes but are usually about 30 centimeters long. You can attach the spikes along the edges of your solar panels. A bird wire system is a network of parallel wires around the outside of your solar panels. It also creates an unstable surface for birds to land on. 

They will create a prickly, unstable, and uncomfortable environment for the pigeons. It will keep them around long enough to get a foothold or make a big mess. The spikes are blunt and uncomfortable but not painful. So, you can be a safe way to keep pigeons away but a bit unsightly. Both bird spikes and wire systems cause minimum injury to birds while effectively keeping them away from your solar installation

3. Use Scare-Pigeon Devices

It is another way to stop pigeons from nesting under solar panels. Pigeons fear predatory birds like owls, falcons, crows, etc. You can use the fear by keeping plastic decoy predatory birds in your roofs or solar panels. Choose the ones with automatic head swiveling. They can also have other realistic movements that mimic the behavior of a real predator. The pigeons will soon be habituated with the fear and ignore your panels. There are also high-tech, automated predator-like devices. You can use them to scare pigeons and other birds away for years. 

4. Keep Your Place Clean 

Pigeons are widely attracted to the dirt. A clean environment is less inviting for roosting. So, maintaining the cleanliness of your solar panel and surrounding areas is key. Remove any dirt or nesting and seal your trash bins tightly. Clean up bird droppings and debris promptly, as birds are attracted to their messes. Food sources can be another reason for the roaming of pigeons in your panels. 

So, clean out food scraps, seeds, and pet food. Flat roofs appeal to birds. So, inspect and clean them regularly to remove dirt, debris, and nesting materials. Clean your panels frequently using solutions like vinegar. Inspect the panels and surrounding areas for signs of nests or flammable materials, which can pose fire risks. 

5. Solar Panel Skirts

Solar panel skirts are an excellent and durable solution to deter pigeons. These thin strips are made from weather-resistant materials like polycarbonate, metal, or mesh. You can install them around the edges of your solar array. This seamless barrier will help block pigeon access. Solar Panel Skirts can withstand harsh weather conditions. If you want a long-lasting and low repair and maintenance solution, it will be the best option for you.

6. Use Ultrasonic Devices

Ultrasonic devices provide an ethical, eco-friendly, and long-term by emitting high-frequency sounds. The sounds are intolerable to birds but inaudible to humans. It creates an uncomfortable environment for birds without harming them. This encourages them to seek alternative nesting sites. Ultrasonic devices are easy to install and have low maintenance. They can operate continuously with utmost weather resistance. It makes them a durable solution for outdoor use. You can use them alongside other deterrents, like solar panel skirts, for enhanced effectiveness. 

7. Use Bird Netting

Bird netting is a highly effective and aesthetic solution for protecting solar panels from pigeons. It is beneficial in high-pressure areas where other deterrents may fail. It provides a guaranteed barrier against determined birds. They are bird netting polyethylene or nylon. It makes them virtually invisible from a distance from the mesh. You can customize the netting size to cover all available spaces around and under the solar panels. 

You can clip the nets easily onto the panels. While bird netting is affordable, easy to install, and low maintenance, it is not the most durable solution. Over time, the nets will need replacement due to damage from strong winds or stormy conditions. But if you install them by skilled professionals, bird netting can remain effective for many years. 

8. Use Slope Sheathing Or Bird Slides

You can use metal, plywood, PVC sheaths, or slopes to create an uncomfortable roosting surface for pigeons. These sheaths are formed by joining three sheets of material into a right-angled triangle. The angle remains between 40 and 60 degrees. This method is simple yet highly effective. 

It leverages the birds’ inability to grip on steep surfaces. The slippery surface of the material makes it extremely difficult for pigeons to perch or roost in the area. You have to install these sloped sheathing products around the top, flat regions of the solar panels. Slides provide a long-lasting solution to keep pigeons away from your solar panels.

9. Use Bird Repellants

Applying repellents where pigeons frequently roost and perch can be very effective in harmlessly preventing pigeons roosting under solar panels. The repellent creates a sticky layer that adheres to the birds’ feet when they attempt to land. This causes irritation and discomfort. It discourages them from returning to the area. Thus, it offers a non-invasive yet impactful solution to keep them away from your solar panels.

10. Call in Professionals

If you really want to stop pigeons from nesting under solar panels then consult with a professional technician who can install withstand or install solar panel proofing. Seeking professional help is the best solution when dealing with persistent pigeon issues under your solar panels. Contact a local solar company certified by HIES or a BPCA (Bird Pest Control Association) qualified pest control specialist. These professionals can advise and install pigeon-proofing solutions tailored to your needs. 

Why Are Pigeons Attracted to Solar Panels?

Pigeons are attracted to solar panels due to their suitability like being safe from direct sun, rain, sufficient airflow, and no one disturbing them. Those solar panels are installed on a tile roof, pigeons love to make a nest under such panels. This is because tiles are pretty good materials and easy to make nests. There are several reasons to choose a PV panel to make a nest under the panel.

1. Easy Access

Pigeons naturally prefer high perching spots. The common areas for commercial solar panel installation are the rooftop and the garden. Both are the easiest access for the pigeons. The smooth surface of the panels also attracts birds from far away. So, they regularly nest in the solar panel area.

2. Protective Shelter

Pigeons find the solar panel a great shelter from human, predator, or weather-related interference. The panels can shade them from harsh sunlight, heavy wind, and rain. Besides, they can get a warm, cozy palace during the winter morning and night. On top of that, they find themselves safe from predators, roofing, and nesting under the panel.

3. Clearer View

The elevated roof of the solar panel can give a comprehensive view of the pigeons. They can also have a bright and blockade-free view from all angles. Thus, the panels act as an urban version of cliffs for the pigeons. So, they get attracted to the panels to scout for food and water.

How Pigeon Nesting Damage Solar Panels?

Pigeons damage photovoltaic panels by scratching their stainless nail, droppings, and other reasons. So, let’s see how pigeon nesting reduces PV panel efficiency and damage.

1. Mess

Pigeons can create a lot of visual and olfactory mess around the solar panels. Pigeons pull at wires and nip at panels. They scatter the nesting materials, unsightly droppings, and fluids in every direction. They accumulate over time and clog and damage the solar panels, gutters, and patios below the solar panels. This leads to water damage or leaks. 

Even the cleaning solar panels must go through this because they are designed to clean dust and dirt not droppings. Droppings can also run down dry and enter the structure through vents and HVAC systems as tiny, toxic dust particles. So, you will have to clean the panels more frequently. Moreover, the stink created by the pigeons will irritate you 24/7.

2. Corrosion

Pigeon droppings cause irreversible damage to solar panels and surrounding structures. Pigeons produce up to 11 kg of fouling per year, which are highly acidic and corrosive. Their accumulation blocks the sunlight absorption of the panels by a significant percentage. As a result, it makes the panels less energy efficient. 

It can result in erratic and insufficient energy production. The poops also discolor and degrade the protective layer, electrical equipment, roofing membranes, shingles, and even tiles. It can miserably lessen their lifespan. Pigeon droppings can also cause roof leaks and deterioration. Their nesting materials can also scratch and damage the solar panels. 

3. Diseases

Pigeon droppings contain pathogens and bacteria, which create significant health risks. Exposure to these pathogens can result in long-term health consequences. They carry diseases such as Histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis. They can lead to severe respiratory issues, infections, and other health complications. 

4. Fire Hazards

Pegions can destroy the safety of your solar system. They often chew or dislodge electrical wires. It potentially leads to fire hazards endangering property and lives. Also, their nesting materials, like twigs, leaves, and feathers, are highly flammable. The wires frequently come into contact with the dry, flammable nest materials. It can create serious fire hazards that are destructive to the surroundings.

5. Pests

Pigeons often trigger pest infestations. One of the most common pests associated with pigeons is bird mites. These can quickly spread to other areas and create massive nuisances. Therefore, the food scraps and debris left around pigeon nests attract rodents and insects like rats, mice, ants, and cockroaches. The combination of bird mites, rodents, and insects can hamper the safety and hygiene of the panels.

6. Distractions

Pigeons are far from silent occupants, so their constant cooing, shuffling, and flapping will irritate you. Their noise can disrupt daily activities, affect concentration, and even disturb sleep. Moreover, the pests they attract will multiply the problem. 

How to Remove Pigeons from Under Solar Panels?

If pigeons have already nested, the first step is safely removing them. You can do this through baiting or trapping. However, it is always best to call the expats. Once the birds are removed, professionals can implement exclusion techniques for stopping pigeons on solar panels. 

Therefore, professionals will clean up any feathers, droppings, or debris left behind and ensure your solar panels are restored to maximum efficiency. It’s essential to verify the company’s services. Hiring a qualified and experienced team ensures compliance with animal welfare regulations and provides a long-term, hassle-free solution to keep pigeons away from your solar panels.

How do You Install Bird Netting Around Solar Panels? 

It is better to have a professional to install bird netting. However, many people want to do it by themselves. If you also like this DIY solar panel bird proofing, here is the step-by-step guide.

Materials Needed

• Wire mesh Rolls
• Fastener hooks
• Fastener caps
• Wire Cutters
• Installation instructions manual

Safety Precautions

1. Wear protective gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear.
2. Turn off the solar panel system: Ensure the system is powered down.
3. Use a stable ladder: Ensure it is securely placed on a flat surface.
4. Work with a partner: Having someone assist you can make the process safer.

Here is the step-by-step guide

Step 1: Unroll The Mesh and Estimate

Take safety precautions and wear protective gear before installing the solar panel bird mesh kit. Put a fastener cap on the end of the fastener hook. Align the mesh to the top of the solar panel. Ensure it’s large enough to cover the area around your solar panels.

Step 2: Alight the Mesh

Start at one corner of your solar panel array. Hold the wire mesh firmly against the corner of the panel. Level it with the uppermost part of the panel framework. Insert the fastener hook through the mesh, facing upwards. Then, connect to the panel framework’s bottom.

Step 3: Fix the Mesh

Hold the fastener’s end with one hand or use pliers to slide the fastener cap. Wait until the mesh is firm against the panel frame. Repeat this step and move around the panel. You should place a fastener every 30-50cm.

Step 4: Finish the Corner’s

Fold the mesh corners above and under each other to complete the corners. Then, trim the fasteners back to the fastener cap. You should cut the mesh halfway up from the bottom. It will help it to be folded into form for the inside corners. You’ll need to cut windows or flaps to fit the mesh around for rails and switchgear, y

How to Pigeon Proof Your Home? 

If your panels are near your home, your home can also be infested with pigeons. All the pigeon-proofing methods we have discussed above are equally helpful in pigeon-proofing your home. However, as your home is a bigger area, here are some additional methods to combine the former ones.

1. Do not Feed the Pigeons

Block the pigeons from accessing any type of ready food. Clean up any spilled food, crumbs, or pet food in your yard or patio. Also, regularly pick up fallen fruit or berries from trees and bushes. Avoid feeding pigeons directly because they have strong memories and will repeatedly return to places where they can find food. 

2. Use Weatherproof String

Stretching taut string or fishing line above popular roosting areas prevents pigeons from landing and balancing. Identify spots where pigeons frequently perch, such as ledges or railings. Then, tie the string about 1 inch above the surface. For larger areas like rooftops, you must install short poles or hooks to support the string. 

3. Spray Pigeons with Water

Take a hose and quickly spray water to scare pigeons away without harming them. Use this method when pigeons first arrive or attempt to land. While this is a temporary solution, it’s useful for immediate pigeon removal. Ensure your hose has a fitting for precise spraying from a short distance. Combine this with other methods like reflective surfaces or string barriers for long-term deterrence.

4. Install Reflective Objects

Reflective lights disrupt pigeons’ vision and make their landing uncomfortable. You can apply waterproof reflective tape to surfaces like rooftops, balcony railings, or window ledges. You can also hang shiny objects near these areas, like foil balloons, old CDs, or metallic streamers. These reflective items create movement and light flashes that scare pigeons away. 

5. Feed Pigeons Birth Control

EPA-certified contraceptives can help reduce pigeon populations over time. Place a unique feeder with kibble-sized food that sterilizes pigeon eggs. While the upfront cost is high, this method is a humane and long-term solution approved by animal welfare groups. It’s legal in most U.S. states, excluding New Hampshire, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.

6. Apply Optical or Contact Gel

Optical gels reflect UV light, making surfaces appear like fire to pigeons. Contact gels contain capsaicin, irritating their feet. Apply a thin layer to ledges, railings, or rooftops. You must ensure that the gel is non-toxic and safe for other wildlife. Avoid gels containing polybutylene. They can harm birds’ feathers and flight abilities.

7. Install Laser Deterrents

Laser systems can effectively scare pigeons by mimicking predators. Use a handheld laser pointer to spook individual pigeons. You can also install a professional laser deterrent system for larger areas. Aim the laser at the pigeons’ bodies or surroundings rather than their eyes to avoid potential harm. 

8. Use Scents and Spices

Pigeons dislike certain scents, which can be a natural and non-toxic deterrent. Use citronella candles, which also repel mosquitoes. You can also spray a mixture of cinnamon and water, diluted peppermint oil, or white vinegar. Additionally, you can sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or ground black pepper on surfaces where pigeons land. 

9. Hire Pest Control Professionals

For severe infestations, consult pest control experts who can trap and remove pigeons. They can implement advanced methods like shock track systems to manage pigeon infestation effectively. This option ensures a thorough and long-lasting solution to pigeon problems.

Conclusion

So, here are the most effective methods of preventing pigeon nesting from under your solar panels. We hope you will find our information and guide helpful. Each of the methods has its own merits and demerits. Choose according to your needs. Combine the methods if necessary. It is better if you get professional help while adopting these methods. It will ensure safer and more effective pigeon-proofing for an extended period.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Benefits of Preventing Pigeons from Nesting Under Solar Panels?

Preventing pigeons from breeding under solar panels increases energy efficiency by ensuring that nests or droppings do not block sunlight. It also lowers maintenance costs by preventing corrosion and damage and extends the panels’ lifespan. It also reduces health risks from disease-carrying droppings, prevents fires caused by flammable nesting materials, and ensures proper airflow and drainage.

How To Prevent Pigeons In The First Place?

The most effective method for preventing pigeons from settling in an area is to remove potential food sources, seal off potential nesting sites by patching up holes and cracks, and install physical deterrents such as bird spikes or netting on ledges and surfaces where they might perch or nest, effectively denying them access to comfortable roosting areas. 

What is the Best Pigeon Deterrent for Solar Panels?

It will depend on your budget, infestation level, and the size of your solar panels. All the deterrents we have discussed are top-notch. You can also combine two or more deterrents if you are not convinced with one.

What Happens If You Destroy a Pigeon Nest from Under a Solar Panel?

Pigeon nesting is seriously harmful as this can cause fire hazards. So, if you are destroying the nest, you are contributing to the safety and uninterrupted production of your solar panels. But make sure you are destroying the nest with proper safety precautions or the result will backfire.

Will Nesting Pigeons Come Back?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Pigeons are homing birds. They will tend to return to their nesting grounds season after season. If you don’t stop them, they will likely multiply.