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Solar panels are built to handle harsh weather and deliver long-term savings, but many homeowners don’t realize that wildlife can pose a serious threat to their system. Birds, squirrels, and other pests often nest beneath solar panels because the underside of the array offers warmth, shelter, and protection. If animals get under your panels, they can chew wiring, damage roofing materials, and reduce system performance.

At Sunshine Plus Solar, we’ve seen how quickly this becomes an expensive problem. The good news is there are clear warning signs that tell you it’s time to install a solar critter guard — a protective mesh barrier that blocks animals from getting under your solar array.

1) You Hear Scratching, Scurrying, or Nesting Sounds

One of the most common signs is noise coming from the roof — especially early in the morning or around dusk. If you hear:

• Scratching
• Scurrying
• Thumping or movement
• Chirping or fluttering

…it’s often a sign that birds or squirrels have started nesting under the panels. Once animals move in, they tend to return unless a physical barrier is installed.

2) Your Solar Monitoring Shows a Sudden Drop in Output

A solar system should follow consistent production trends. If your monitoring app shows a noticeable change — especially without a weather explanation — pests may be interfering with wiring or connections beneath the panels.

Common indicators include:

• Sudden production dips
• Random outages
• Inverter error notifications
• Frequent “system not reporting” alerts

While output drops can have multiple causes, wildlife intrusion is a frequent culprit once panels are accessible.

3) You See Birds Repeatedly Landing Near the Array

If you regularly see birds landing along the edge of your solar panels, it may not be random. Birds often scout nesting locations before building. If they find an entry point under the array, they can create nests made of sticks, leaves, and debris — which can clog drainage paths and create roof issues over time.

4) Nesting Debris or Droppings Appear Around the Roofline

Another strong sign is the buildup of debris near your array or gutters. Watch for:

• Twigs and leaves collecting near the panel edges
• Feathers or nesting material
• Bird droppings concentrated in one area

This often indicates birds are nesting underneath and dropping debris outward as they move in and out.

5) You Notice Chewed Wires or Exposed Cabling

If you’ve ever seen visible wiring near your array and notice it looks damaged, that’s a major warning sign. Squirrels and rodents chew wiring instinctively, and exposed conductors can create serious risks, including system shutdown and electrical hazards.

If any wiring damage is suspected, it’s important to have a professional inspect the system immediately.

6) There Are Visible Gaps Under the Solar Panels

Walk around your home and look at the edges of your solar array. If you can clearly see open space beneath the panels, animals can likely get in. Even small gaps are enough for squirrels and birds.

A properly installed critter guard seals this perimeter with heavy-duty mesh without impacting airflow or performance.

7) You’ve Had Animal Issues on Your Roof Before

If your home has a history of:

• Squirrels in the attic
• Birds nesting in vents
• Rodent activity around the roofline

…your solar array is at higher risk. Solar panels provide the perfect sheltered space, and wildlife often moves in quickly once they find it.

Why Critter Guards Are the Best Solution

While deterrents and DIY fixes may provide short-term relief, the most reliable solution is a professionally installed solar critter guard. It blocks access permanently and protects your solar investment from:

• Nesting damage
• Chewed wires
• Fire hazards
• System downtime
• Roof and gutter issues

Protect Your Solar System Before Damage Happens

If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it’s best to act early. The cost of installing critter guards is typically far less than the cost of repairs, panel removal, and lost energy production.

To learn more about solar critter guard installation, visit https://sunshineplussolar.com/ and speak with the Sunshine Plus Solar team.