Solar panels are an increasingly popular way to generate renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. However, they can also provide a cozy nesting spot for birds. If you have solar panels on your roof, you may have noticed birds nesting underneath them. In this article, we will discuss why birds nest under solar panels in Merseyside, the risks and benefits of this phenomenon, and what you can do if you have birds nesting under your solar panels.

Introduction

Solar panels are a popular form of renewable energy in Merseyside, providing clean electricity while reducing your carbon footprint. However, birds have also discovered that solar panels offer a convenient and sheltered spot to nest.

Why Do Birds Nest Under Solar Panels?

Birds naturally seek sheltered and secluded spots to build their nests and raise their young. Solar panels provide the perfect location, as they offer protection from the elements and predators, as well as warmth from the sun.

Risks and Benefits of Birds Nesting Under Solar Panels

While birds nesting under solar panels may seem harmless, there are both risks and benefits associated with this phenomenon.

Benefits

• Solar panels provide a sheltered and safe location for birds to build their nests and raise their young.
• Birds nesting under solar panels can help control pest populations, such as insects and rodents, by eating them or scaring them away.
• The presence of birds nesting under solar panels can enhance the biodiversity of your property and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Risks

• Birds nesting under solar panels can cause damage to the panels by pecking or scratching at them, which can reduce their efficiency and lifespan.
• Bird droppings can accumulate on the panels, which can also reduce their efficiency and require cleaning.
• The noise and activity of birds nesting under solar panels can be disruptive to homeowners.

What Can You Do if You Have Birds Nesting Under Your Solar Panels?

If you have birds nesting under your solar panels, there are several things you can do to address the issue.

Install Mesh or Netting

One of the most effective ways to prevent birds from nesting under your solar panels is to install mesh or netting. This creates a barrier between the birds and the panels, preventing them from accessing the area underneath.

Use Visual Deterrents

You can also use visual deterrents to scare birds away from your solar panels. These can include reflective tape, predator decoys, or hanging objects that move in the wind.

Provide Alternative Nesting Spots

To encourage birds to nest elsewhere, you can provide alternative nesting spots on your property, such as birdhouses or nesting boxes.

Clean the Panels Regularly

Regular cleaning of your solar panels can help prevent bird droppings from accumulating on the surface, which can reduce their efficiency.

Conclusion

Birds nesting under solar panels is a common occurrence in Merseyside, and while it may have both benefits and risks, there are ways to address the issue. Installing mesh or netting, using visual deterrents, providing alternative nesting spots, and regular cleaning can all help prevent birds from nesting under your solar panels.

FAQs

1. Is it legal to remove birds’ nests from under solar panels?

• It is illegal to remove an active bird’s nest under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, unless you have a general licence, it is important to note that general licenses do not apply to all species of birds so it’s best to take preventative measures before birds start nesting.

2. Will mesh or netting harm birds?

• Mesh or netting that is installed correctly should not harm birds, as it creates a barrier rather than trapping them.

3. Can birds nesting under solar panels cause a fire?

• While it is rare, bird nests under solar panels can potentially cause a fire if the wiring becomes damaged.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about birds nesting under your solar panels, or if you need assistance with installing mesh or netting, cleaning your solar panels, or providing alternative nesting spots, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is here to help you find the best solutions to address this issue and protect your solar panels and the birds that may nest under them.

You can reach us by phone at 07859805336, or by email at pestcontrol.me.uk@outlook.com. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your solar panel needs.