Installing solar panels on your roof can be a great way to reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint. However, you may encounter an unexpected problem – birds nesting under the solar panels! Birds like the shelter and warmth the panels provide, but their nests can damage wiring and cause other issues. Here are some tips on how to deter birds from nesting under solar panels:
Why Birds Nest Under Solar Panels
There are a few key reasons birds are drawn to make their nests under solar panels:
- Shelter from weather and predators – The enclosed space under solar panels offers protection from rain, wind, intense sun, and natural predators. Birds value a dry, safe spot to build their nest.
- Open access – Solar arrays are elevated off the ground and often lack walls or barriers, allowing easy access for birds underneath.
- Suitable materials nearby – Birds can collect materials like twigs, leaves, and grass from the ground right under the solar panels to build their nests.
- Warmth from equipment – Some of the electrical components under solar panels can emit subtle heat, helping keep nests warm.
Problems Caused by Birds Nesting Under Solar Panels
While bird nests may seem harmless, allowing birds to nest under solar equipment can cause a number of problems:
- Equipment damage – Nest materials and droppings can corrode or erode solar panels and electrical components.
- Electricity hazards – Birds and their nests can interfere with cables and connections, risking fires or equipment malfunctions.
- Efficiency reductions – Droppings and nest materials block sunlight from reaching solar cells, reducing energy production.
- Costly repairs – Removing nests and fixing damaged equipment can require hiring solar professionals.
- Safety issues – Rodents and parasites can be attracted to bird nests and droppings, posing health risks.
5 Ways to Deter Birds from Nesting Under Solar Panels
It’s important to take proactive steps to keep birds from viewing your solar array as prime nesting real estate. Here are five effective tips:
1. Install Physical Barriers
Installing physical barriers that block birds from accessing the space under solar equipment is the most direct nest prevention method. Options include:
- Plastic or nylon netting – Stretch netting above, below, or directly on top of the solar array. Use a gauge small enough to block birds but not sunlight.
- Wire mesh screens – Attach screen mesh around and beneath the perimeter of the solar structure.
- Porcupine wire – Coil or string spiky wire to discourage birds from landing.
- Rain gutters – Add rain gutters along roof panel edges to close off open access.
- Reflective strips – Tape reflective strips or aluminum foil over top and edges to scare birds away.
2. Use Repellent Gels and Liquids
There are several non-toxic bird repellent gels and liquids on the market that can be applied to panels and rooftops. The mild irritation they cause makes the areas unpleasant for birds to land on. Reapply after rain as needed.
3. Remove Nest Materials
Eliminating natural nest materials around the solar installation can discourage nest building. Steps include:
- Regularly clear away twigs, leaves, grass, and weeds from under and around solar equipment.
- Prune back overhanging tree branches. Birds often collect sticks from branches.
- Use gravel or pavers around the array base since birds wonʼt collect stone materials.
- Keep the area around the solar installation tidy by mowing, raking, and weed trimming regularly.
4. Employ Scare Devices
Using strategic scare tactics can convince birds to move their nest elsewhere:
- Fake predators – Place realistic fake owls, snakes, or hawks nearby to stress birds. Rotate occasionally.
- Scarecrows – Position wind-blown fabric scarecrows by the solar equipment.
- Reflective ribbons – Hang shiny ribbons that move in the wind and startle birds.
- Motion sprinklers – Connect sprinklers to motion sensors that spray birds when triggered.
5. Use Sonic Bird Repellers
Sonic bird repellents use predator bird calls and other distress sounds to trigger birds’ natural fight-or-flight response. They are most effective when moved periodically so birds don’t become desensitized.
Tips for Deterring Birds Nesting Under Solar Panel
Follow these extra tips for the best results when trying to deter birds from solar equipment:
- Start deterrents before birdsʼ nesting season begins. It’s easier to keep them away than remove nests later.
- Use multiple techniques together for better effectiveness. Physical barriers paired with removing materials works very well.
- Be patient. It may take weeks or months for stubborn birds to finally give up nesting on the site.
- Inspect often and maintain deterrents. Check for any gaps or damage needing repair.
- Prioritize crucial areas on the equipment for deterrents first if full coverage is difficult. Focus on likely access points and entries.
- Ensure deterrents are safe for children, pets, wildlife, and the environment. Avoid tactics like chemicals or glue traps.
Why it’s Important to Act Quickly
If you notice any nesting activity under your solar array, it’s important to act quickly before they become established. Once birds have built a nest and laid eggs, they are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. You must wait until chicks have fledged and the nest is abandoned before removing it. It’s better to take proactive deterrent steps now to avoid bigger problems later.
When to Call a Professional
In some cases, birds persistently return and professional help may be needed:
- If damage or unsafe conditions occur due to nesting birds or their droppings.
- When birds leave a big mess requiring special clean-up or disinfection.
- If you’re unable to perform installations or repairs related to deterrent methods yourself.
- When nests develop in hard-to-reach spots on high or commercial solar arrays.
- If you live in an area requiring permits or compliance for deterrent installations or removing nests.
Professionals like solar equipment contractors, wildlife control companies, and roofers can provide the expertise and equipment needed to address stubborn bird nesting issues.
Benefits of Keeping Birds Away from Solar Panels
By making your solar array an inhospitable nesting spot for birds, you’ll enjoy several benefits:
- Lower cleaning and equipment replacement costs.
- Optimized solar production from clean, unobstructed panels.
- Reduced fire risks from damaged wiring.
- Compliance with solar panel warranties and regulations.
- Peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.
Deterring birds from nesting under your solar panels takes some diligence but is worth the effort. Following these tips will help keep your system running efficiently and free of damaged caused by pest birds seeking prime nesting real estate. Act quickly at the first sign of nests to protect your equipment.
Coexist with Solar Power and Birds
Deterring nesting on solar equipment doesn’t mean banning birds from your property entirely. With some smart tweaks, you can both harness solar energy and provide safe habitat for your feathered friends:
- Add specific bird houses, feeders, and baths away from the solar array location.
- Plant bird-attracting flowers and vegetation away from, not under, the panels.
- Install solar panels away from existing trees and bird habitats whenever possible.
- Keep areas tidy and food waste contained to avoid attracting rodents to the site.
With the right deterrents and regular maintenance, you can successfully keep solar installations free of bird nests and enjoy their presence outside of the equipment. Protect your investment in renewable energy while being kind to birds and the environment.