Can Pigeons Get Trapped Under Solar Panels After Bird Mesh Is Installed?

3 days ago

2 min read

Yes. If bird mesh is installed while a pigeon is still underneath the solar panels, the bird can become trapped inside.

That is why the area underneath the array should be checked before the final openings are closed.

Why Can This Happen?

Pigeons can hide deep underneath a solar array where they are difficult to see from the roof edge.

They often spend time around:

Solar mounting brackets
Racking
Existing nests
Interior sections of larger arrays

If an installer simply starts enclosing the perimeter without checking underneath, a pigeon could remain inside.

Should Nests Be Removed First?

Yes.

If pigeons have already been nesting underneath the panels, accessible nests and nesting material should be addressed before the array is enclosed.

Cheetah offers bird nest removal from underneath solar panels as part of applicable pigeon control projects.

Depending on the project, cleanup may also include droppings and other debris underneath the panels.

What Happens if a Pigeon Is Trapped Inside?

The mesh should not simply be left closed.

A section needs to be opened so the bird can get out before the array is properly sealed again.

If you recently had bird mesh installed and still hear persistent pigeon activity underneath the panels, contact the installer and have the system inspected.

Can Pigeons Get Back Under the Panels Later?

That is a different issue.

If pigeons return underneath the array days or weeks after installation, there is likely an opening somewhere in the barrier.

Common causes include:

A gap at a corner
Loose mesh
A failed attachment point
An opening that was missed
Mesh disturbed during later solar or roof work

Properly installed solar panel pigeon proofing should close the exposed perimeter so pigeons cannot simply walk back underneath.

Why Cleanup Before Mesh Matters

Bird mesh should not be treated as simply attaching wire around the panels.

For an established pigeon problem, the job may also require removing nests, nesting material, droppings, and other debris before the area is closed.

That is something worth asking about when comparing pigeon proofing quotes.

The Bottom Line

Bird mesh should keep pigeons out, not trap them underneath.

Before the final opening is closed, the area underneath the solar panels should be checked and existing nesting material should be addressed.

If pigeons are currently living underneath your panels, learn more about Cheetah's solar panel pigeon proofing or get a personalized price range with our Instant Price Estimator.