Pigeons are notorious for causing damage and finding strange places to nest. This usually happens because pigeons nest on and around people‘s roofs. They build their nests on these surfaces, and can damage the house by flooding gutters and blocking air vents. Along with this, their faeces are highly corrosive. However, nowadays there’s a new type of damage caused by pigeons. What makes this particularly alarming, is that this damage has an enormous financial cost. What are we talking about? The damage to solar panels caused by pigeons. This is something that has recently got media attention.
Why do pigeons nest underneath solar panels?
If you’re wondering if pigeons nest beneath solar panels, the short answer is yes. The reason why this happens is because there is often a gap between the solar panels and your roof. This allows pigeons access to the area beneath the solar panels. This area is a great place for building a nest as it offers several advantages to the pigeon.
First of all, the area is protected from wind and rain. Second, the area is protected from predators. Solar panels are also a great place for pigeons to raise their young. The area is warm, and as we’ve said, provides protection.
The issue is that if pigeons nest near your solar panels, it could result in quite considerable damage. One of the biggest problems is that accumulated faeces could lower the effectiveness of your solar panels. So, what can you do to get rid of pigeons on solar panels?
How can you prevent pigeons nesting in these areas?
Bird mesh is the simplest and easiest way to deal with the problem. All you have to do is surround the perimeter of your panels with mesh. This will prevent the birds from getting underneath your panels. Next, get a bird control expert like Diamond to install bird spikes on your roof and around the solar panels. These should be placed wherever your observe pigeons landing, or nesting.
Something else you can do is place plastic figures of predators, like an owl or other bids of prey, on the roof. Pigeons (believe it or not) think these figures may actually attack them. Something else you can do is hang shiny objects. This can include things like pie trays, glass, or old CDs. These reflect the sun into the pigeons eyes, and scares them away. There are also anti-bird sonic devices available that you may want to invest in.
The bottom line is that pigeons nest on solar panels and this must be taken seriously. If these birds damage your solar panels, it could cost you thousands in repairs. This is why the problem should be dealt with quickly. Our London pigeon control services include a wide range of methods for dealing with these pests, so do feel free to call our team to discuss your situation.