Scarecrows are humanoid figures dressed in old clothes and placed in fields to keep birds and other pests away from crops. For example, ancient Egyptian farmers placed doll figures along the Nile River to protect wheat field from birds. Although scarecrows are an interesting topic, they would seem to have nothing to do with the SAT. But hold on – I’ll explain!
The August 22, 2026 SAT contained a vocabulary in context passage that began by pointing out that although scarecrows are widely used, they typically don’t work. Intelligent pest birds like crows and pigeons quickly realize that a stationary scarecrow poses no actual threat. As a result, many farmers are now switching to
reflective tape as a way of deterring unwanted pests.
Reflective tape has a number of advantages. While not as visually interesting as a scarecrow, the tape’s flashing lights create dynamic visual images that startle birds.
OK, and now it’s finally time for the money word! In order to prevent the birds from becoming HABITUATED or accustomed to the reflective tape, farmers should regularly vary its location. Got it – no problem! HABITUATE is the consensus correct answer!
HABITUATE – to become accustomed to something