Contech Electronics Scarecrow Motion-Activated Sprinkler #CRO101

These work great ...I couldn't wait to get it set up as soon as it arrived. I used a LESS than fresh 9v battery and it worked OK. Within 2 weeks it was less than reliable, as a matter of fact it wasn't working at all, most of the time. I got out the owners manual and began to trouble shoot the symptoms. First off a new copper top battery, next a towel to dry off my face, finally I fired up the laptop and ordered another one. My problem was a dead battery, that was about a month ago. Since then I've installed a second scare crow sprinkler and they both work great.

I would give 5 stars but they are kind of pricy, so I dinged the review a little for quality ..... its all plastic,

Although I'm still adjusting it so that it doesn't soak the neighbors as they walk down the sidewalk, the scarecrow works exactly as advertised right out of the box. Well made and sturdy.

I wouldn't have a garden if it wasn't for these sprinklers. Before I started using this product the deer were eating everything in my garden. Once I set up the sprinklers the deer ceased to be a problem. They deer appear to remember that the sprinklers are there and now keep their distance -- sometimes right on the periphery of the sprinkler's sensing range. I currently have four in use with two back-ups in the shed. Despite being a few years old and having been through some rough winters, mineral deposits, harsh sun, etc., they still work. Highly recommended for keeping deer and turkeys away. In my experience, cats are less deterred.

I have had raccoons frequenting my backyard and deck for the summer; feasting on a neighbor's fruit trees. Normally I would not care, except that they have taken to my deck for their....ah.....'excretory' purposes....

What I tried:

- motion detector light.....they did not care

- Ground up habanero peppers in corn oil, sprayed on the deck and surrounding vegetation...nope, no change

- Scarecrow sprinkler.....I did notice a lower level of 'activity', but it did not deter them completely.

The Scarecrow seems to be tempermental about the amount of motion it needs to set off the sprinkler, but I think that is a function of the remaining power of the battery; I have had the Scarecrow for about 2 months, and have gone through 3 9V batteries.

I do like the concept, but am not sure the Scarecrow is up to task.....perhaps I need to cut down my neighbors fruit trees....

I used to end up buying feeder fish for my pond because the neighborhood cats and racoons would eat the fish. I tried nets but did not like the way they looked and what good is a water feature if it looks bad. Then I found this. Since I've installed it, the neighboorhood cats have stayed out of my yard and make a large arc around it. I have not lost any fish and have even added some expensive Koi without fear of simply buying pricey cat food. I would highly recommend this for anyone who is tired of dealing with neighborhood cats entering thier yard.