Birds have the incredible gift of building nests in the most ingenious locations. Often these places are very fascinating to observe. Except when it’s your own roof and they make bird nests under your solar panels; then things get a little less fun. This is because a bird’s nest under your solar panels can affect the performance of the panels, lead to additional maintenance costs and possibly even cause damage. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this from happening. In this blog, we give you five tips to prevent bird nests from building under your solar panels. In addition, we provide a few tips to make your yard more attractive to birds so they will build their nests there instead of on your roof.
Why do birds choose solar panels?
Before we get to the solutions, it is important to first understand why birds choose solar panels to build their nests in the first place. Solar panels offer birds a safe and sheltered location away from predators and adverse weather conditions. It is an ideal place for birds to nest, especially in urban areas where natural habitats may be limited. Hence, bird nests under solar panels are a popular choice with birds.
Tips to prevent bird nests under solar panels
When solar panels are installed by a professional company, you can usually assume that they are good quality and they are installed properly. Still, you obviously don’t want something to happen to them when you could have prevented it yourself. Therefore, try one of these tips:
Tip 1: install bird repellent products
One of the most effective ways to deter birds is by installing bird repellent products. Consider bird pegs, nets or wire mesh. These prevent birds from nesting under your solar panels. However, make sure these installations are done in a safe manner and are not harmful to birds.
Tip 2: Use visual deterrents
Visual deterrents such as reflective objects, fake raptors or scarecrows can be effective in deterring birds. These objects can convince birds that your solar panels are not a safe place to nest.
Tip 3: Remove existing bird nests under solar panels
If you notice that birds have already started nesting, it is important to remove the nests. In doing so, make sure you do so in a legal manner. In some countries, for example, it is illegal to remove birds’ nests during the breeding season. Also in the Netherlands, it is illegal to remove bird nests under solar panels during the breeding season. Make sure you follow local laws and contact a professional if necessary.
Tip 4: Use noise deterrents
Sound deterrents such as ultrasonic devices can also be an effective way to keep birds away from your solar panels. These devices produce a sound that is annoying to birds but inaudible to humans.
Tip 5: Consider professional help
If you are unable to chase away the birds yourself, it may be wise to seek help from a professional company that specializes in bird control. They have the experience and resources to deal with the problem in a safe and effective manner.
Making garden more attractive to prevent bird nests under solar panels
Attracting birds to your yard can be a win-win. It provides the birds with a safe habitat and prevents bird nests under your solar panels. In addition, it is just a lot of fun to have birds in the garden. And bird nests even more so, because you can enjoy the squeaking of young birds. With a little luck, you can even see them make their first flight out of the nest! Here are three tips to make your garden more attractive to birds, in the hope that they will build their bird’s nest here:
Tip #1: Plant native shrubs and trees
Native plants, shrubs and trees provide the best source of food and nesting sites for local bird species. They also provide shelter from predators and adverse weather conditions. Consider choosing plants that produce fruits, berries or seeds to provide birds with a natural food source in addition.
Tip 2: make sure you have water
Water is an essential element for attracting birds to your garden. This can be in the form of a bird bath, a pond or even a simple bowl of water. Just make sure the water is clean and replaced regularly to prevent disease.
Tip 3: install nesting boxes
Placing nesting boxes in your yard can create an inviting environment for birds to nest. Make sure the nesting boxes are placed in a safe place. That is, away from predators and in a quiet place where the birds will not be disturbed. Each type of bird has a preference for a certain type and size of nest box. Therefore, do some research on the bird species in your area to provide the best nest box for them.
Birds are interesting, often even very beautiful animals. It is therefore nice to be able to admire them around your house. But if they start making bird nests under your solar panels, it becomes less fun. Hopefully you can get started with the tips above and continue to enjoy the birds without any problems. Good luck!
