Scarecrow

Kakashi2

安全帽を被った案山子6180154

Circle of scarecrow children at Joe's Scarecrow Village

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Norland Scarecrow Festival 12

Urchfont Scarecrow Festival, Ali Baba

A scarecrow known as "Bungkhyachaa" in Nepali in a cauliflower field in Nepal

Scarecrow is a device, traditionally used in agriculture, designed to deter birds and other animals from eating crops. Scarecrows are commonly depicted as human-like figures dressed in old clothes, placed in fields to create the illusion of a human presence, thereby scaring away birds such as crows and sparrows which might feed on the seeds or young plants.

History

The use of scarecrows dates back to ancient times. Early farmers in both Europe and Asia used scarecrows as a method to protect their crops. In pre-feudal Japan, scarecrows were known as kakashi, made from bamboo rods and dressed in raincoats and hats. They were also used in Ancient Egypt to protect wheat fields along the Nile River from flocks of quails. The Greek writer Diodorus Siculus records that the inhabitants of the island of Sicily filled their vineyards and gardens with wooden figures painted purple and with clubs in their hands, known as ephialtes or terrifiers, to keep birds away.

Design and Construction

A traditional scarecrow is made with materials readily available on a farm. A cross is formed with two wooden sticks, dressed in old clothes, and a hat is often placed on top to enhance the human silhouette. The face of the scarecrow, if given one, is usually simplistic, created with markers or paint on a cloth or sack that is then filled with straw or hay and attached to the top of the cross structure. Modern scarecrows might incorporate more sophisticated materials or even technology, such as motion-activated sprinklers or sound devices, to increase effectiveness.

Cultural Impact

Scarecrows have transcended their agricultural purpose, becoming figures in folklore, literature, and popular culture. They are often associated with the autumn season and harvest festivals. In literature, one of the most famous scarecrows is the character from L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, who desires a brain and accompanies Dorothy on her journey to see the Wizard. This character has contributed significantly to the iconic status of scarecrows in American culture.

Modern Uses

While traditional scarecrows still find their place in some modern farms, newer methods to protect crops from birds have been developed. These include ultrasonic devices, reflective tape, and netting. However, the scarecrow remains a symbol of agriculture and rural life, as well as an inspiration for autumnal decorations and festivities.

See Also

• Agriculture
• Pest control
• Birds
• Folklore