Why Squirrel Infestations Are Common in Solar-Heavy Neighborhoods

Squirrel problems are becoming more of a problem in cities and suburbs, especially where solar energy is widely used. These small animals can do a lot of damage to homes by nesting and chewing on things. Installing solar panels is one way for homeowners to stop and control infestations.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior

Squirrels are naturally tree-dwelling animals that like high places like tree holes or areas with lots of leaves. They quickly change when artificial structures take the place of these choices. They eat fruits and veggies, nuts, seeds, bird seeds, and food scraps from around the house. They are very territorial and often go back to the same nesting places, which makes it hard to move them without your help. Because they are so flexible, they can use any food source that is close to where they nest.

The Rise of Solar Energy Adoption

In the U.S., more and more homes are getting solar panels, and neighbourhoods with lots of solar panels are becoming the norm. These places have advantages like lower power costs, a smaller carbon footprint, higher home values, and the ability to use their energy. Large homes, well-kept greenery, low-chemical pest control, and cute urban wildlife like squirrels are some of the things that make this neighbourhood unique.

How Solar Panels Attract Squirrels

Squirrels can nest safely in solar panels because they keep the nest warm and dry and protect the squirrels from animals, rain, and wind. They also give us lots of food through gardening, compost bins, and lush landscaping. The dark, narrow room between the solar panel and the roof is great for keeping kids safe and raising them.

The Impact of Urbanization on Squirrel Populations

Since forests have been cut down to make room for new homes, squirrels have had to learn to live in new places, like on roofs and in attics. They learn quickly how to get around power lines, climb up trees to get to roofs, and get to solar panels. This has caused more squirrels under solar panels to live in cities and suburbs because there are more plants, trash, and food.

Common Signs of Squirrel Infestations

By chewing on electrical wires, putting trash under panels to make nests, leaving tooth marks on wood or plastic trim, and screeching or running sounds from the roof, squirrels can damage property. During the day, they can damage roofing materials, especially under solar panels, which can lead to water leaks.

Prevention Strategies for Homeowners

Put up barriers like mesh guards, use smell or motion-based repellents in places where pests like to nest, and cut back tree branches near the roof to make it harder for them to get to your solar panels. Set up regular checks, look for droppings or nesting materials, and close any holes in the roof that animals can get through. Don't plant nut or fruit trees close to your roof, and keep bird food trash and compost bins locked up.

Managing Existing Squirrel Infestations

Some humane ways to get rid of squirrels are to use live traps or exclusion doors, get them to leave before closing off their entry points, and stay away from poisons and other harmful chemicals. If it's unsafe to access or inspect solar panels, if there are large or recurring infestations, or if electrical parts might be damaged, you should hire experts. Long-term management includes putting up fixed barriers that keep people out, doing seasonal checks, and teaching neighbours about the situation.

The Role of Community Awareness

To get rid of squirrel problems, homeowners' groups and local governments can share information on how to keep squirrels away, hold workshops on eco-friendly ways to get rid of pests and start community projects like composting and shared pest control services. Wildlife experts and local animal shelters or rescue centres can work together to make sure that control is both humane and effective.

Squirrel populations are growing in places where solar panels are used a lot because of urbanisation, more food, and higher places to nest. Even though solar power has some benefits, it's important to deal with the fact that squirrels can get under cells. To stop damage and keep investments safe, the community needs to work together, put up barriers, and make smart choices about planting. Understanding the link between solar technology and squirrel behaviour can help people keep their property safe while living with wildlife in cities in a healthy way.