A flying scarecrow is a scarecrow that gives the impression of jumping or flying. It is connected to a pogo stick or spring and bounces from one direction to another giving the impression that it is flying.
A flying or jumping scarecrow is a great decor idea for Halloween! It is fun and unpredictable! If you’re crafty then a flying scarecrow can be DIY’d at home using an old pogo stick!
How a Jumping Scarecrow Works
If you are still unsure how a jumping scarecrow works, take a look at this video: 
Materials Needed To DIY A Flying Scarecrow Using Pogo Stick
- 1 old pogo stick (with spring still functioning)
- 2 wooden rods or PVC arms (about 3 feet each)
- T-joint or strong duct tape/zip ties
- Old clothes (shirt, pants, gloves)
- Foam or plastic head (or Halloween mask)
- Fabric strips or creepy cloth
- Lightweight stuffing (rags, straw, paper)
- Wire, rope, or zip ties
Easy Option
If you would prefer an easy option then you can buy a flying scarecrow online.
Instructions to Make A Jumping Scarecrow
1: Anchor the Pogo Stick
- Option A: Drive the pogo stick base about 6–12 inches into the soil, ensuring the footpad is stable.
- Option B: Attach the base to a heavy planter, a concrete bucket, or tie it securely to a fence post.
- Make sure the stick can wobble or rock freely for that motion effect.
2: Add the Scarecrow Arms
- Attach wooden rods or PVC pipes horizontally to the handlebar area.
- Secure with zip ties or tape, or drill small holes for wire fastening.
- Leave some play in the connection so the arms can shift or flap slightly in the wind.
3: Dress and Stuff
- Slide an old shirt and pants onto the pogo stick and arms.
- Lightly stuff the torso and limbs with plastic bags or paper to keep it flexible.
- Add gloves and boots at the ends for a realistic touch.
- Tie rope at cuffs to hold the stuffing in place.
4: Make and Attach the Head
- Use a foam head, painted jug, or mask stuffed with rags.
- Mount the head on the top of the pogo stick handle or over a short upright pipe.
- Tie or tape securely. Add a hat or hood to hide the top section.
5: Add Motion Details
- Tie strips of fabric, tattered cloth, or ribbons to the arms, shoulders, or waist.
- You can attach small windsocks or foil tails to exaggerate motion.
- Optionally, tie on noisemakers like cans, bells, or plastic to deter birds.
Final Check
- Give it a light push to test wobble and bounce.
- Make sure everything is secure but lightweight enough to catch wind.
- Adjust the arms and fabric tails for best motion.
Why the Pogo Stick Works So Well
The spring-loaded design gives the scarecrow natural movement, even in low wind. When wind hits the arms or cloth tails, the slight rocking and bouncing makes the figure look animated. This makes it more effective at scaring off birds and small animals while also standing out as a decorative centerpiece.
