Dear Aggie

Do Scarecrows actually work?

Few icons of the countryside are as enduring or instantly recognizable as the scarecrow. With a longstanding reputation for standing guard over the fields, supposedly scaring off winged crop thieves. A question about how well they do their job circulates. Do scarecrows actually work…? The short answer: kind of.

Scarecrows can be effective. The straw dolls are impractical for modern-sized, commercial fields, being unable to protect large expanses of crops. However, for smaller gardens they are capable of providing some deterrent. Besides field size, scarecrow efficacy also depends on the species. Blackbirds and crows are more easily spooked than other more determined species. Though even birds that may be fooled the first few times by the strawman’s presence are smarter than we give them credit for and will quickly take note of the figure’s static nature, adapting to its presence. Farmers can boost the scare factor on their straw counterparts through a variety of tactics, such as equipping them with loose clothing that flaps in the wind, moving their location frequently, or using high-tech versions that utilize motions sensors and sound. Even with these advancements, the reality is that scarecrows only offer temporary and limited crop protection. Since scarecrows are not as effective as we may have been led to believe, what do commercial farmers use to prevent birds from stealing their crops?

Scarecrows are not the only form of visual deterrent. Other props such as realistic predator decoys and reflective materials can dissuade birds from landing and ultimately snacking on field crops. Unfortunately, these methods meet the same fate as the scarecrow. Their efficacy waning as familiarity with the tools increases.

Some field protection strategies rely on sound instead of sight to scare off birds. Electronic devices can be placed around the fields and play bird distress calls or predator sounds, destroying the curiosity of nearby avian intruders. Ultrasonic devices may also offer protection. Emitting high-frequency noises, supposedly not heard by humans and only audible to birds. Propane cannons are another tool available to farmers. Producing loud, booming sounds at regular intervals. These devices are quite effective at spooking potential scavengers, but can also be disruptive to the neighborhood.

One of the most reliable ways to keep crops safe is through the use of physical barriers. Fencing deflects ground feeding birds, while netting provides protection from all sorts of species. While effective, this strategy can be expensive. Physical barriers often accrue large costs for obtaining and installing. Another high impact method is chemical repellants. Methyl anthranilate, a product derived from grapes, can be spread directly onto the fields or utilized in fogging devices to protect vast expanses of crops. The food-grade ingredient emits an unappealing taste and odor that repels birds. In a similar manner, chili pepper sprays also have their use in deterring avian thieves. Containing capsaicin, the sprays dissuade birds by irritating their mouths and eyes.

While scarecrows have a humble place in our hearts as a symbol of farming, they are not the best at their jobs. Now they thrive mostly as decorations, reminding us of rural life and fall harvests. Though farmers have adapted, using modern strategies to protect their yields instead, we still thank scarecrows for their service.

By: Noelle Porras, Food System Marketing Specialist

Last updated May 14, 2025