True or False: Many hawks and falcons will lay a second clutch if the first clutch of eggs is destroyed soon after being laid.

The statement is true because many species of hawks and falcons exhibit a behavior known as "replacement clutching." When the initial clutch of eggs is lost due to predation, environmental factors, or human intervention soon after being laid, these birds can often respond by laying a second set of eggs. This reproductive strategy is an evolutionary adaptation that enhances their chances of reproductive success in the face of challenges, ensuring that their genetic material has an opportunity to survive and thrive.

Different species may exhibit varying degrees of this behavior, influenced by factors such as the health of the breeding population, availability of resources, or environmental conditions, which is why it can be seen as a general tendency in many raptor species rather than a characteristic of all. This flexibility in reproduction highlights the resilience and adaptability of these birds in various breeding environments.