Pesticides are substances used to control or kill unwanted plants and animals. They are typically spread across broad areas but only a small percentage actually reach the intended target, with most reaching other destinations. Certain pesticides like organophosphates and DDT can harm the environment and wildlife by damaging nervous systems or thinning eggshells. While pesticides have been used for thousands of years, some that were originally developed as nerve agents are still in use today, despite safer alternative pest control methods existing.