With the ban of DDT in the United States, the falcons have begun to recover, but have required reintroduction in many areas to regain a foothold where they had disappeared. Peregrine Falcons were severely endangered (and actually extirpated from eastern North America) in the mid-20th Century, mostly due to the pesticide DDT, which softens eggshells and results in widespread nest failure. In Washington, one species from this family belongs to the caracara group, while the others are true falcons. Extended parental care is the norm for this family, as it takes a relatively long time for the young to learn to hunt. Once the young no longer need to be brooded, both parents bring food. The female generally incubates the eggs and broods the young, while the male brings food to the nest. Some caracaras build stick nests in trees, but most species in this family nest on cliffs, in other birds' nests, or in cavities, and typically do not add any nesting material. They are generally monogamous and form long-term pair bonds. Like other birds of prey, females are larger than males. Regardless of the approach, members of this family almost always use their feet to catch prey. Members of the caracara group are more opportunistic, taking carrion as well as live prey and often foraging on the ground. Many catch avian prey in flight, but others prey on large insects, mammals, and ground-dwelling birds. Built for speed, most falcons have pointed wings and long tails. Some of the fastest-flying birds can be found in the falcon group. This widespread and diverse family of predatory birds is divided into two groups.
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