If you've made the investment in solar panels for your home or business, you’re probably enjoying lower energy bills and the peace of mind that comes with choosing a more sustainable energy source. But there’s a sneaky little issue that many solar panel owners don’t anticipate — pigeons.

Yes, pigeons. These common birds might seem relatively harmless at first glance, but when they start nesting under your solar panels, they bring along a host of problems that can affect your solar system’s performance, your property, and even your health.

Let’s take a closer look at the risks associated with pigeons nesting under solar panels — and how a professional pest control company can help keep your investment (and your health) protected.

Why Do Pigeons Love Solar Panels?

Solar panels create the perfect shelter for pigeons. Raised just enough off the roof to allow entry, they provide shade, protection from predators, and a warm environment — all things pigeons seek when nesting.

Once a few pigeons decide your roof is home, it won’t be long before you have a full-blown infestation. These birds are social and tend to stick together, meaning one nest can quickly become many.

The Risks of Pigeons Under Solar Panels

Damage to Your Solar Panel System

Pigeons might not seem destructive, but over time, their presence can cause real damage:

Droppings are corrosive. Pigeon droppings contain uric acid, which can corrode metal and even affect the surface of your solar panels, reducing their efficiency.
Nesting materials clog drainage. Pigeons bring in twigs, leaves, and debris to build nests. These materials can block the water drainage channels on your roof or within the panel setup, leading to water pooling, leaks, and potential roof damage.
Chewed wires. While pigeons don’t usually gnaw through wires themselves, their nests can attract other pests like rodents, who do — causing short circuits and even fire hazards.

Health Concerns

Beyond the physical damage to your roof and solar system, pigeon infestations can pose serious health risks:

Pigeon droppings are a biohazard. These droppings can harbor a number of disease-causing organisms, including Histoplasmosis, Cryptococcosis, and Psittacosis. When dried droppings turn to dust, they can become airborne — and inhaling them can lead to respiratory issues.
Parasites and pests. Pigeons often carry mites, ticks, and fleas. Once pigeons are nesting on your property, it’s not uncommon for these smaller pests to migrate indoors, causing even more problems.
Unpleasant odors and unsightly messes. The smell of droppings, the mess of scattered nesting debris, and the constant cooing can quickly become more than a nuisance — they can affect your quality of life and even decrease property value.

Why DIY Pigeon Control Isn’t Enough

Many homeowners try to tackle pigeon problems themselves, whether it’s with spikes, decoy predators, or store-bought deterrents. While these can provide short-term relief, they rarely offer a long-lasting solution.

Pigeons are smart and adaptable. Once they’ve chosen your roof as home base, it takes a comprehensive, strategic approach to remove them — and more importantly, to keep them from coming back.

How a Pest Control Company Can Help

A professional pest control company brings the experience, tools, and techniques needed to eliminate pigeon infestations and prevent future issues. Here’s how they can help:

Thorough Inspection and Assessment

The first step is a detailed inspection of your property, especially the roof and solar panel setup. Professionals look for:

Signs of nesting or droppings
Entry points
Any existing damage caused by pigeons or other pests

From there, they can tailor a solution that fits your unique situation.

Safe and Humane Removal

Ethical pest control companies use humane methods to remove pigeons and their nests. This might involve:

Live trapping
Carefully timed removal to avoid harming chicks
Specialized cleaning equipment to safely remove droppings and contaminants

Effective Solar Panel Proofing

Once the pigeons are gone, the key is keeping them out. Pest control specialists can install solar panel mesh or screening — a nearly invisible barrier that blocks birds from nesting underneath the panels while still allowing proper airflow.

These installations are designed to be non-invasive and won’t void your solar panel warranty. Done correctly, this proofing is a one-time investment that can save you from years of recurring problems.

Protect Your Solar Investment

Solar panels are a significant investment, one that’s designed to pay off over decades. Letting pigeons nest under them can dramatically reduce their performance, create health hazards, and lead to costly repairs.

The good news? You don’t have to deal with it alone. A licensed pest control company can take this messy, stressful issue off your hands — safely, effectively, and with long-term results.

If you’ve noticed pigeons loitering on your roof or suspect they’re nesting under your panels, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier (and less expensive) it will be to deal with the problem.

It’s easy to overlook what’s going on above your head, but when it comes to pigeons and solar panels, what you don’t see can definitely hurt you. From structural damage to serious health concerns, pigeons bring more than just noise — they bring real risk.

By partnering with a professional pest control company, you can protect your solar panels, preserve your home’s integrity, and keep your environment healthy and safe. So take a peek up at your roof — and if the birds have moved in, it might be time to call in the pros.

How to Protect Your Solar Panels from Pigeons: Damage Risks and Pest Control Solutions