Squirrels and Birds Under Solar Panels: What You Need to Know
Solar panels are a fantastic addition to any home, offering clean energy and reducing electricity bills.
However, if you live in Stark, Summit, or Portage Counties, you might be unaware of a common issue: nuisance wildlife like squirrels and birds making homes under your solar panels. As solar installations increase, so does the incidence of wildlife taking advantage of these setups. Squirrels and birds are particularly notorious for nesting under solar panels, where they find a safe, sheltered environment. Unfortunately, many installers do not consider this aspect, leading to unintended consequences for homeowners.
At Frontline Animal Removal, serving the Canton, Akron, and Kent areas, we often deal with this exact problem. We offer insights and a warning video in this week’s post. Enjoy!
The Problem with Wildlife Under Solar Panels
When solar panels are installed, a gap is often left between the panels and the roof. This space can become an ideal habitat for squirrels and birds.
One of the primary reasons this happens is due to inadequate screening and exclusion methods during installation. As shown in our recent YouTube video, poor-quality screening not only fails to keep squirrels out but can even aid them in creating a more secure habitat. This makes it essential for homeowners and installers to consider wildlife exclusion from the outset.
How to Prevent Wildlife Intrusion
- Quality Screening and Guarding: Ensure that high-quality materials are used for screening and guarding around your solar panels. Cheap or poorly installed screens can be easily bypassed by determined animals. Professional installation of these barriers is crucial to their effectiveness.
- Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections of your solar panels to check for any signs of wildlife intrusion. Early detection can prevent significant damage and costly repairs. Look for nests, droppings, or chewed wires.
- Professional Wildlife Removal: If you suspect or confirm that squirrels or birds have moved in under your solar panels, contact a professional wildlife removal service like Frontline Animal Removal. We can safely and humanely remove the animals and repair any damage they have caused.
- Pre-Installation Planning: If you’re considering installing solar panels, discuss wildlife exclusion with your installer. Ask about the measures they take to prevent animals from getting under the panels. Proper planning can save a lot of trouble down the line.
The Long-Term Benefits of Proper Planning
By considering wildlife exclusion before installing solar panels, you can avoid many potential issues. A well-planned installation that takes animal behavior into account will not only protect your investment but also ensure the longevity and efficiency of your solar energy system.
At Frontline Animal Removal, we are committed to helping homeowners in Canton, Akron, Kent, and the surrounding areas protect their homes from nuisance wildlife.
If you have solar panels or are considering installing them, think about the potential for squirrels and birds to take up residence underneath.
Here is an article that may interest you on The Need for Solar Panel Guards.
By addressing this issue proactively, you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the headache
