Bahrain could soon see a shift from traditional straw scarecrows to smart, technology-driven pest deterrents, as authorities move to better protect farms, nurseries and gardens from attacks on crops, trees and plants.
The Southern and Muharraq Municipal Councils have unanimously approved a proposal submitted by five MPs led by Strategic Thinking Bloc president MP Ahmed Al Salloom, who is also chairman of Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee. The proposal urges the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry to actively support farmers, horticulturists and gardeners in tackling escalating pest problems.
Mr Al Salloom said the issue was no longer limited to birds pecking at crops, but had expanded to a wider range of threats that traditional methods were failing to deter.
“Farmers today are facing repeated attacks that directly affect productivity, income and food security,” he said. “Static scarecrows are no longer enough. Animals and birds adapt quickly, and we must help our agricultural sector move towards smarter, more effective solutions.”
Some experts agree. Aviaway bird control services, for example, suggests the effectiveness of scarecrows depends on the pests. For example, some migratory birds dropping into Bahrain are easily scared off by scarecrows, but regular inhabitants such as pigeons and seagulls are not as easily frightened.
They work by tricking birds and animals into thinking a human is present, triggering their natural fear of predators, but their effectiveness fades as animals get used to them. In general, scarecrows work best when used in combination with other deterrents, it added.
The proposal opens the door to modern systems, which have evolved far beyond simple human-shaped figures. Around the world, advanced models now use artificial intelligence, motion sensors, lasers, sound systems and even robots to frighten pests away while remaining environmentally friendly.
Some systems use AI-powered cameras to identify specific threats and respond accordingly, while solar-powered green laser scarecrows project moving beams that birds perceive as physical danger. Others deploy robotic falcons that mimic real predators, or motion-activated sound devices that disrupt pest behaviour.
Supporters of the proposal say the aim is not to impose a single solution, but to expand the toolbox available to farmers, combining tradition with innovation.
Mr Al Salloom said government backing would be key. “With proper support, pilots and awareness, Bahrain can adopt modern, eco-friendly pest control that protects crops without harming the environment,” he added.
Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif said the proposal was approved in response to growing concern voiced by farmers and landowners.
“We are hearing repeatedly from agricultural producers that crop losses are increasing,” he said. “The council believes modern deterrents can play an important role, especially if the ministry supports farmers with guidance, trials or subsidies.”
He stressed that protecting agriculture was essential not only for farmers, but for Bahrain’s broader food resilience and green spaces.
Meanwhile, Muharraq Municipal Council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar said innovation was necessary to keep pace with changing conditions.
“Pests become accustomed to static objects very quickly,” he said. “Dynamic, moving and intelligent deterrents are far more effective, and this proposal encourages the ministry to explore solutions that are practical, affordable and suitable for Bahrain’s environment.”
Locally, scarecrows are being used to fend off birds such as crows, ravens, sparrows and blackbirds, alongside mammals such as rodents, rabbits and mongoose. The Indian House Crow is present in Bahrain and considered an introduced/invasive species, often found near human settlements, agricultural areas, and landfills where food scraps are available. While not native, they are a common sight and part of the diverse, though predominantly migratory, birdlife in the kingdom.
While high-tech options are gaining attention, traditional scarecrows have not been completely abandoned. Many farmers still use reflective ribbons, rotating objects and predator-shaped models, which remain popular for small gardens.
The proposal has now been referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for consideration, with expectations that pilot projects or advisory programmes could follow if approved.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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