Solar panels are a great investment, helping homeowners save on electricity bills while reducing their carbon footprint. However, they can also attract a surprising problem—birds.
In Melbourne, birds often nest under solar panels, causing significant damage over time. What may seem like a harmless situation can quickly escalate into blocked sunlight, corroded panels, and even fire hazards.
Bird droppings contain acidic properties that eat away at solar panel surfaces, reducing their efficiency. Nesting materials like twigs and leaves can create blockages that lead to overheating and electrical damage.
Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs, lower energy production, and even health risks. If you’ve noticed birds around your solar panels, taking action sooner rather than later is the best approach.
How Do Birds Damage Solar Panels?
Many homeowners don’t realise the extent of the damage birds can cause until it’s too late. Here are some of the most common ways birds affect solar panels:
Bird Droppings Reduce Efficiency
Bird droppings are not just unsightly—they contain highly acidic compounds that can corrode the protective layer of solar panels. Over time, this reduces their ability to absorb sunlight and generate energy efficiently.
Nesting Creates Fire Hazards
The space under solar panels provides the perfect sheltered nesting spot for birds. They bring in twigs, leaves, and dry materials, which can easily catch fire if they come into contact with electrical components.
Blocked Airflow Leads to Overheating
Solar panels need proper airflow to function efficiently. Nesting debris can block ventilation, leading to overheating and potential damage to the internal wiring of the panels.
Bird Activity Attracts Other Pests
A bird infestation often brings mites, fleas, and other insects, which can spread to different areas of the home. These pests can cause hygiene problems and even lead to allergic reactions in some people.
Real-Life Cases of Bird Damage to Solar Panels
A Family in Melbourne Lost 25% of Their Solar Efficiency
A Melbourne homeowner noticed their energy bills were rising despite having solar panels. Upon inspection, it was found that bird droppings had stained and corroded the panels, reducing their efficiency by 25%. The repair costs were double what bird-proofing would have cost initially.
Solar Panels Catch Fire Due to Nesting
A commercial property in Victoria faced a fire hazard after birds built nests under the solar panels. The dry nesting materials caught fire due to overheating, causing thousands of dollars in damages. The business had to shut down operations temporarily to fix the issue.
Signs That Birds Are Nesting Under Your Solar Panels
Not sure if birds are causing trouble on your roof? Here are some common warning signs:
- Bird droppings on or around the panels – A visible sign of frequent bird activity.
- Scratching and chirping sounds – You may hear birds under the panels, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Nesting materials – If you notice twigs, leaves, or feathers near your solar panels, birds have likely set up a nest.
- Decreasing solar efficiency – If your energy production has dropped unexpectedly, bird droppings or nests might be blocking sunlight.
How to Stop Birds from Nesting Under Solar Panels
There are several effective ways to prevent birds from nesting under your solar panels:
- Bird Mesh Installation
Installing high-quality bird mesh around the edges of the solar panels is the most effective way to prevent birds from getting underneath. The mesh acts as a physical barrier, stopping birds from entering while allowing proper airflow.
- Spikes and Deterrents
Bird spikes placed along the edges of solar panels prevent birds from landing. Additionally, reflective objects like shiny tapes or discs can scare birds away.
- Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your solar panels clean removes bird droppings and nesting materials, making the area less attractive to birds. Regular maintenance also helps identify any issues before they escalate.
- Sound and Visual Deterrents
Some homeowners use ultrasonic devices that emit sounds birds find unpleasant. However, birds can adapt to these over time, making them a temporary solution at best.
- Professional Bird-Proofing Services
Hiring professionals ensures long-term protection. They install durable barriers and deterrents specifically designed for your property.
Why DIY Bird-Proofing Doesn’t Always Work
Many homeowners try DIY bird-proofing methods, but these often provide short-term solutions at best. Here’s why:
- Fake owls and plastic snakes stop working once birds realise they’re not real.
- Cheap netting can break or deteriorate due to Melbourne’s harsh weather.
- Removing nests yourself can be risky—some birds are protected under Australian wildlife laws.
- Improper installations can cause damage to solar panels, voiding warranties.
Investing in professional bird-proofing ensures the problem is handled properly and legally.
How Professionals Bird-Proof Solar Panels (Step-by-Step Process)
Wondering what happens when you hire a professional bird-proofing service? Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Inspection and Assessment
Experts inspect your property to identify bird activity and potential entry points under the panels.
Step 2: Cleaning and Removal
Any existing nests and droppings are safely removed to prevent further contamination.
Step 3: Installing Bird Mesh or Barriers
Heavy-duty mesh or specially designed barriers are installed around the edges of the solar panels to block birds permanently.
Step 4: Adding Extra Deterrents (If Needed)
For properties with persistent bird issues, additional spikes or reflective deterrents may be installed.
Step 5: Final Inspection and Maintenance Advice
Once installation is complete, professionals conduct a final check to ensure everything is secure and effective. Homeowners are also given maintenance tips to keep birds away long-term.
Get Professional Bird Pest Control in Melbourne
If birds are nesting under your solar panels, taking action now can save you thousands in repairs.
For expert bird pest control Melbourne, Specific Pest Control offers long-term, effective solutions to keep your solar panels safe.
Our team provides professional bird-proofing services designed specifically for Melbourne homes and businesses.
Don’t wait until bird damage becomes a major issue!
Contact Specific Pest Control today and protect your solar panels before it’s too late!