What are scarecrows traditionally used for?

Scarecrows are human-like figures used in rural areas to keep birds away from crops. The idea is that birds are scared by these mannequins and will not interfere with seeds or ripened fruit and vegetables in the surrounding fields.

Scarecrows have very ancient origins and are present in many cultures around the world. Farmers have been using them for centuries to repel birds, like crows or sparrows, from their fields. This prevents birds from ruining newly-planted crops and eating ripened fruit and vegetables. Scarecrows are sometimes made of straw, stuffed bags, pillows or wood. Clothes, rags and hats are used to make them look like humans.