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Other common methods used to deter birds are bird spikes, an owl bird scarer and Black Cat Bird Scare.
If you are after direct intervention, I propose attaching a Holman 3 Arm Sprinkler With Heavy Duty Weighted Base on your garden hose and sitting it near where the pigeons roost. If you have a WiFi controlled garden hose, you can activate the sprinkler and surprise the pigeons away without harming them.
You can also try traditional methods such as mixing cayenne pepper mixed in some with some water in a spray bottle. Spray along the areas where the pigeons like to roost, the strong smell is offensive to pigeons.
One of the reasons pigeon's roosts in certain areas is because of the availability of food and water. Do you have pets, and do you feed them nearby? If not, it may be just out of habit that the pigeons have decided to use your area as the communal hangout.
Remember that pigeons are creatures of habit. If you discourage them long enough, they will transfer to another location. - EricL
Bird netting is a good option and/or Whites-600mm-Anti-Bird-Pest-Control-Spike. - MitchellM
For preventing pigeons nesting under solar panels, the easiest solution is to ask the installer what preventative measures they can install at the same time.
Failing that I am thinking black wire mesh under the panel edges. Mounting will depend on the solar installation frame work. Use short screws to avoid damage to internal components. Colorbond self-drill fence screws may lend itself to the task. - Jewelleryrescue
I like Jewelleryrescue's suggestion and the idea I had in my mind was almost the same. I was going to suggest making a roll up of that sized plastic mesh and then wedge it under the edge of the solar panels. That way nothing is drilled and the springiness of the mesh will stop it blowing out from underneath the edge. - Dave-1
Just a word of caution that anything touching the underside of the panel that has the potential to move and cause wear or scratch could cause damage to the panel itself or the individual cells.
I would potentially look at cable tie panel mount and use a dab of silicon that way it shouldn't come off the face off the edge of the panel. Make sure to use white UV stabilised.
If you care about the longevity of your panels and systems then do not do the following:
- Place anything that will press against the underside of the panels.
- Close off airflow from under the panels this will effect power output and also potential hotspots or fire.
Panels are fragile, they need airflow as they get extremely hot and they are producing electricity. If in doubt contact the panel manufacturer for advice, don't risk your investment (or worse, your house). - CSParnell
Bird spikes. We use these on our transformers and associated cables here in New Zealand. If birds can't land, they can't roost, because their wings won't close when they land. All you need is a pack of cable ties and possibly some supports for the spikes. - MikeTNZ
