How to Stop Pigeons from Nesting Under Solar Panels

Solar panels are one of the best investments a homeowner can make, especially in a sunny city like Las Vegas. But there’s one problem many people discover far too late: pigeons nesting under their solar panels. Once pigeons move into the shaded space beneath a solar system, they quickly create noise, smells, mess, and long-term roof damage.

As a company that handles bird netting for solar panels, pigeon removal, and bird nest cleanup every day, we see how fast a small pigeon issue can turn into a serious problem. The good news? With the right approach, you can prevent pigeons from returning and keep your solar panels protected year-round.

This guide explains everything homeowners need to know - what attracts pigeons, what damage they cause, and the most effective ways to stop them from nesting under solar panels.

Why Pigeons Love Solar Panels

The underside of a solar system creates the perfect shelter for pigeons. Here’s why they choose that spot:

Safe From Predators

Pigeons want protection from hawks, cats, and other animals. The space under panels offers a hidden, hard-to-reach area.

Warm and Dry

Solar panels trap heat, especially on Las Vegas rooftops. Birds use that heat to keep their nests warm.

Stable Structure

The mounting hardware provides the perfect frame for building nests that won’t collapse.

Easy Access

One open side is enough for pigeons to enter and start nesting.

Once pigeons settle in, they stick around - and bring more pigeons with them.

What Happens When Pigeons Nest Under Solar Panels

Pigeons may look harmless, but nesting under solar panels causes serious issues:

1. Buildup of Droppings and Debris

Pigeon droppings are acidic and can deteriorate roofing materials over time. The debris from nests can trap moisture and cause corrosion.

2. Blocked Wiring and Overheating

Nests placed directly around electrical wiring can interfere with the airflow solar panels need to stay cool and function efficiently.

3. Fire Risk

Dry nesting materials like twigs and feathers near wiring create a potential fire hazard.

4. Algae and Stains on Panels

Droppings on top of solar panels reduce efficiency and leave stains that are hard to remove without proper solar panel cleaning.

5. Fast Reinfestation

If the nest or scent remains, pigeons continue returning - even after you remove them once.

This is why bird-proofing your solar panels early is essential.

How to Stop Pigeons from Nesting Under Solar Panels (Step-by-Step Guide)

Below is the complete process homeowners should follow to finally keep pigeons out from under their solar panels.

1. Remove All Bird Nests and Debris

Before bird proofing begins, you must remove everything pigeons left behind:

• Old nests
  
• Feathers
  
• Droppings
  
• Broken eggs
  
• Food scraps

This step is essential because birds are attracted back by the scent and nesting materials. Even a small amount of leftover debris can cause pigeons to return.

2. Clean and Sanitize the Area Thoroughly

Once all debris is removed, the next step is to clean and disinfect the entire roof surface, including the perimeter of your solar panels.

A proper cleaning and sanitizing process helps:

• Eliminate bacteria from droppings
  
• Remove smells that attract pigeons
  
• Reduce the risk of roof staining
• Prepare the panels for proper bird net installation

For best results, cleaning should be followed by a safe, non-toxic deterrent spray to discourage birds from coming back.

3. Install Bird Netting or a Solar Bird Guard

This is the most important part of stopping pigeons permanently.

Bird netting for solar panels (or a solar bird guard) creates a physical barrier around the entire perimeter of your solar system. When installed correctly, it prevents pigeons from entering underneath the panels.

A high-quality system should be:

• Heavy-duty and UV-resistant
  
• Designed specifically for solar panels
• Installed without drilling into or damaging the panels

Secure on all sides with no gaps or openings

This is the only proven, long-term solution for pigeon control around solar panels.

4. Seal All Entry Points

Pigeons only need a small opening to get back in. Before leaving the roof, make sure:

• No brackets are exposed
  
• No loose edges exist
• No wind-lifted panel corners
• No gaps bigger than a finger remain

A bird-proofing system is only effective if the entire perimeter is sealed.

5. Monitor the Area and Maintain Your Solar Panels

Bird proofing doesn’t require much maintenance, but an occasional check helps ensure everything stays secure.

Look for:

• Loose netting
  
• Wind-shifted sections
• Bird activity on the roof
• Droppings building up on panel surfaces

Simple monitoring prevents small issues from becoming major reinfestations.

Why Proper Bird Proofing Protects Your Solar Investment

Stopping pigeons from nesting under your solar panels is one of the most effective ways to protect your roof, maintain strong system performance, and avoid unexpected repair costs. When birds leave behind nests, droppings, and debris, they can damage wiring, trap moisture, and reduce your panels’ efficiency over time. A proper process - safe nest removal, full cleaning, sanitizing, and installing durable bird netting - creates a long-lasting barrier that keeps birds from returning and helps your solar system run at its best. If you need expert help with bird proofing, nest removal, or pigeon control, our team is here to assist you. Contact us today!