Scarecrows, a common autumnal decor, have a history that dates back to ancient times. However, their association with autumn is somewhat peculiar.
Agricultural scientist Rebecca Brown notes,
I don’t think I’ve ever seen a commercial farm that used a scarecrow with the intent of scaring birds. If they’ve got one, it’s as seasonal decoration.
Historian and folklorist James P. Leary adds that if scarecrows were used to ward off birds,
they would be constructed in spring and serve their purpose through summer.
This raises questions about the scarecrow's connection to autumn, as they are often seen in corn mazes, crop fields, and as decorations during harvest festivals.
Author's summary: Scarecrows have an unusual link to autumn.