Source: The Herald – Breaking news.
Reginald Chirenje-Youth Interactive Writer
Birds and animals are common threats to farming worldwide causing extensive damage to crops which results in many setbacks.
A variety of birds and insects’ pest control strategies have been developed ranging from traditional, low-cost methods to advanced technologies.
Morgan Michael Mhandu, a 22-year-old Engineering student from the University of Zimbabwe invented a solar-powered automated scarecrow that controls animal crop pests.
“Wheat shortage which took place sometime in our nation and motive to support the President’s Pfumvudza initiative which aims to boost farming production made me come up with such an idea of a solar automated scarecrow”, Mhandu said.
The innovative bird and animal repellent was designed to effectively protect crops from damage which results in low crop yield and quality for both small-scale and commercial farmers in Zimbabwe.
“The device emits distress signals which scare off birds and animals, resulting in the reduction of physical damage to crops, ensuring high quality of crops which will contribute to the economy of our nation through monetary gains”, he said.
He further explained that the solar-powered scarecrow is made up of three components which include the solar panel, regulator, and battery. The solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, the battery is used for energy storage and the regulator extends the device’s lifespan.
The scarecrow covers an area of 7 500 square metres which makes it suitable for both small-scale and commercial farmers.
Mhandu described his solar-powered scarecrow as better than the traditional scarecrows.
“The solar automated scarecrow offers several advantages as compared to the old traditional existed.
“My device does not require physical maintenance and can operate continuously for up to four days in the absence of solar radiation which is a benefit to the farmers.”
Apart from the scarecrow used for crop protection, it also helps with wildlife conservation and home security. The PIR sensor can be used to detect external intruders which triggers an alarm or alert system.
New technology and innovations have enhanced the effectiveness of scarecrows, their timeless design, and their cultural significance which makes them valuable in agricultural practices.
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