Why I like scything.....

One reason is that I find a lot of frogs and toads hiding in the grass. The frogs have time to hop free and the toads crouch underneath.

big toad

This beautiful fella (?) had just been scythed over the top of.

I am very glad you posted this, Nancy. I've been going back and forth with someone who is selling a used scythe and it's been getting complicated trying to set up a time with him so I can check it out and possibly purchase it. I was just getting to a point to tell him to forget it since it's not something I really need being that I use a ride-on mower for most of the mowing, and the property would be too large for just using a scythe, but I like the idea of using a scythe for at least part of the property, especially a field that we've let go natural that isn't working out how I hoped it would. So I have to take it down periodically which the scythe would be wonderful for (once I learn how to use it properly). Your post has inspired me to continue to be patient with him.

I would strongly recommend giving it a try. I agree with Annie I see critters constantly that a mower would have got especially since I don't cut the pasture very short. I use a scythe to manage acres of land and I think its great. Don't worry about the perfect technique you can watch 10 minutes of youtube and you will be close enough. Then just go for it and over time it becomes much easier. Once you get decent at it you will be surprised how much area you can cover. If you use a riding lawn mower it ruins the grass for animal feed, plus it is really hard on the grass and does horrible stuff to the ecology of your land. If you keep your grass taller and don’t scythe to much you will be shocked at how much life and your pasture can thrive vs a mowed field. Since you mentioned you have a large area you can cancel the gym membership and be out in nature at the same time win win.      

Somebody gave me a book about scything when he found out i swung one regularly. The intro mentions an oldtimer exclaiming "What, you're going to write a book about scything? Just swing the damned thing!".
I own a bush whacker, but it's a hassle, always fiddling with plastic threads, noise, petrol smell, not starting.
Scything gives me an old time feeling. Just make sure you sharpen with a 2 dollar little stone which always sits at the same spot. It's easy to work, adjust height, leave the clover, but cut the grass above, take down the nettles that flower, they'll rebounce, get another soup out of them, it's sharp enough to whack some brambles or even sloe because i usually get out the shorter stouter version.