Why Birds Nest Under Solar Panels (and How to Prevent It)

Solar energy is rapidly gaining popularity as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for homeowners and businesses. However, an unforeseen issue has emerged alongside the growth of solar installations: birds nesting under solar panels. While these panels offer a clean energy alternative, they also create an ideal environment for birds to nest, leading to numerous problems for homeowners.

In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind this behavior, the challenges it presents, and how we can effectively address the issue. Plus, we’ll introduce you to BirdBlocker—a smart, humane, and effective way to keep birds from settling in under solar installations. Let's explore this topic together!

Why Do Birds Nest Under Solar Panels?

Many common birds – like pigeons, jackdaws, and crows – instinctively look for secluded locations to build their nests and raise their young. Solar panels mounted on rooftops create a well-suited gap for this purpose. This small space offers protection from predators, insulation from harsh weather, and a stable environment for nesting. However, while it may seem like a haven for birds, the reality is far more problematic for both birds and homeowners.

One of the primary reasons birds choose to nest under solar panels is protection from predators. High up on rooftops, birds can evade threats like cats, raccoons, and other predatory animals that typically hunt at ground level. Additionally, larger birds of prey, such as hawks and eagles, are less likely to spot their nests under the shadow of solar panels. Likewise, homeowners don't often inspect these areas letting them nest undisturbed for long periods. 

Another major factor is shelter from extreme weather conditions. Nesting birds require a secure space to lay eggs and raise their young. The gap under solar panels provides a perfect refuge from heavy rain, wind, and excessive sunlight, ensuring that nests remain intact and undisturbed.

During colder months, solar panels also offer warmth. The panels generate and retain heat, which helps regulate the temperature underneath. While this might seem beneficial to the birds, the reality is more complex. Temperatures under solar panels can rise significantly, exceeding comfort and reaching lethal levels for eggs and hatchlings. The same environment that offers protection can become a death trap when excessive heat builds up beneath the panels, effectively cooking the young birds in their shells.

Problems Caused by Birds Nesting Under Solar Panels

While birds find the area beneath solar panels ideal for nesting, their presence can lead to several challenges for homeowners and the solar installations themselves:

• Accumulation of Nesting Materials: Birds gather twigs, leaves, and debris for nesting, which can obstruct airflow under panels, causing overheating and reduced efficiency. These materials are also flammable, raising fire hazards.
• Damage to Wiring and Panels: Birds can peck at or become entangled in the wiring of solar panels, leading to potential short circuits or system malfunctions. ​
• Risks from Droppings: Bird droppings will block crucial sunlight and are highly acidic and corrode the surface of solar panels, reducing their efficiency over time.
• Attraction of Other Pests: Bird nests can attract other unwanted pests such as mites, ticks, and rodents, which can further damage the installation and pose additional health risks.
• Noise Disturbance: Nesting birds, especially species like pigeons, can produce constant noise, disrupting the tranquility of households. ​
• Danger to Birds from High Temperatures: As seasonal temperatures rise under the panels can reach up to 70°C, which can be fatal for eggs and chicks.

Homeowners may also face increased maintenance needs and trouble sustaining their systems efficiency. Understanding these challenges is essential for maintaining the integrity of solar panel systems while also respecting local wildlife.

How to Prevent Birds from Nesting Under Solar Panels

Given the issues associated with birds nesting under solar panels, homeowners should take proactive steps to prevent this from occurring. One effective method is regular maintenance and inspections. Checking for early signs of nesting activity and promptly removing nests before eggs are laid can prevent long-term infestation. Routine cleaning of debris and droppings also helps maintain panel efficiency.

Another preventative measure is the installation of bird deterrents. Several methods, including bird spikes and netting, have been used to discourage birds from perching on rooftops. However, these methods are often ineffective or inhumane, as they can cause injury to birds or entrap them in netting.

For a long-term and humane solution, homeowners should consider installing a barrier-style deterrent system like BirdBlocker.

BirdBlocker: The Ultimate Bird-Proofing Solution

BirdBlocker is specifically designed to prevent birds from nesting under solar panels while maintaining airflow and energy efficiency. Unlike traditional deterrents such as spikes or mesh, BirdBlocker offers a safe, non-invasive, and highly effective solution.

Why Choose BirdBlocker?

• Durable Construction – Made from high-quality recyclable materials, BirdBlocker is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-term protection.
• Simple Installation – The BirdBlocker system can be installed without screws or adhesives, preserving the integrity (and warranty) of your solar panels.
• Effective Deterrence – By blocking the gaps between the solar panels and the roof, BirdBlocker prevents birds from accessing nesting areas without obstructing airflow.
• Multiple Size Options – BirdBlocker comes in different sizes to accommodate various panel heights and roof types, ensuring a perfect fit for every installation.
• Animal-friendly – Unlike sharp spikes that can injure birds or mesh that may trap them, BirdBlocker acts as a simple barrier that discourages nesting without harming wildlife. By blocking access to the gaps under solar panels, BirdBlocker ensures birds seek alternative nesting sites without injury.

Protect your solar panels today! Shop BirdBlocker

How BirdBlocker Works

BirdBlocker creates a barrier around the perimeter of a solar panel installation, preventing birds from accessing the space beneath the panels without obstructing airflow. This innovative solution not only protects solar systems from potential damage caused by nesting birds but also promotes the efficiency and longevity of the panels by reducing risks.

Secure Your Solar Setup Today

Allowing birds to nest under solar panels creates numerous problems for both homeowners and the birds themselves. The risks outweigh the benefits from decreased energy efficiency and increased maintenance costs to fire hazards and potential bird fatalities due to high temperatures. Preventative measures such as regular inspections and other deterrents can help, but BirdBlocker provides a humane, durable, and easy-to-install option for the best long-term solution.

By installing BirdBlocker, homeowners can ensure their solar panels remain efficient, safe, and free from nesting birds while also allowing birds to find more suitable nesting sites elsewhere. Protect your investment and maintain a cleaner, quieter, and safer home with BirdBlocker today!