Katy Bratun c 2007
katybratun.com
For centuries farmers and gardeners have fixed scarecrows to frighten birds and small animals from their gardens. In the New World the Indians and the Pilgrims used them too.
Usually the scarecrow is put out as soon as the crop is planted. He stays all summer long. During harvest we see him as tired and droopy with corn husks sometimes sticking out of his clothes. He is often used as a symbol at Halloween or harvest parties.
Some people plan a different scarecrow each year. During the winter months they collect old pieces of clothing. Neighbors think it is exciting to see the new scarecrow make his appearance in the spring!
The seeds that farmers plant today are coated with pesticides so they will not taste good to the birds or small animals. Therefore farmers do not make scarecrows as they did many years ago.
- written by LaDawn Jacob
- p.s. Katy Bratun does wonderful children’s book illustrations!
