Pigeons and Solar Panels

In Pests

Pigeons and Solar Panels

With the increase in properties having solar panels fitted there is also an increase with birds (especially pigeons) nesting under the solar panels.

The problems that nesting birds cause include smells, a buildup of droppings which can block gutters and drains, noise and general nuisance. Pigeon droppings also carry Psittacosis which is carried in the dust of dried pigeon droppings.

Psittacosis

Also known as parrot fever, and ornithosis — is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Chlamydophila psittaci and contracted from infected parrots, such as macaws, cockatiels and budgerigars, and pigeons, sparrows, ducks, hens, gulls and many other species of bird.

Information on Pigeons Solar Panels from The British Pest Control Association (BPCA)

Birds can also damage the panels themselves.

Whereas nesting starlings or sparrows cannot be disturbed while nesting, pigeons can be, and if necessary can be culled. Pigeons are not protected and considered vermin. Control is always attempted without killing the birds.

Birds are learning that Solar Panels are a nice place to roost, nest and shelter. At Pest UK we are receiving an increasing number of calls relating to this problem. We now have access to a newly designed bird spike that has been designed for use with solar panels. This is similar to a ‘normal’ bird spike but set at an angle to prevent birds gaining access. This allows the base to have maximum contact with the roof making to spike stable and strong. It may take time but these problems with birds and solar panels will increase as birds learn this behaviour and pass it down to their offspring. These spikes, unlike other methods (mainly wire mesh), allow adequate ventilation under the panels and also allow larger items such as leaves pass through rather than getting caught and building up as does happen with mesh.

For more information about how Pest UK can protect your property from pigeons see www.pestuk.com/pest/protect-solar-panels-from-pigeons-birds/

We offer free quotes for dealing with birds nesting or roosting under solar panels.

This house in Oxford has has specialist proofing to prevent the roosting and nesting of pigeons under the solar panels