The secret lives of rare seabirds nesting on a Westcountry island paradise are to go global as part of a major project spanning a quarter of a century.
Nearly £800,000 is to be spent on halting and reversing the decline in birds such as the storm petrel or Manx shearwater, whose population has dwindled by 25% since 1983.
The project will hone in on the Isles of Scilly, a renowned bird sanctuary, and seek to actively reinstate populations and boost the number of people involved in conservation efforts.
One of the unique parts of the scheme will use internet technology to literally offer a bird's eye view of their lives, while ensuring they are not disturbed by visitors tramping through habitats.
David Mawer, senior conservation warden at the islands' Wildlife Trust said it was wonderful news for all of the islands in the archipelago.
"The eerie cries and shadowy silhouettes of seabirds at dusk could soon be another wildlife spectacle enjoyed by locals and visitors on St Agnes," he said.
"To hear storm petrels singing magically from within the boulder beaches would be really wonderful.
"Seabirds already attract visitors to Scilly, and this project and the clever use of technology can reveal more of their fascinating lives, whilst leaving the seabirds free from unwanted disturbance."
The islands, 28 miles off Land's End, are home to breeding populations of 14 species and an estimated 20,000 birds.
Although famous for a pristine wildlife habitat, conservationists have sometimes had to struggle against nature to make sure that bird populations thrive.
In the past, rats eating eggs and chicks have formed one of the main threats to nesting birds, however work over the last 15 years has successfully eradicated the predator from the numerous uninhabited islands.
The project, which will get underway early this year and is backed by funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the EU Life programme amongst others, will seek to underpin the work so far and roll it out further.
Paul St Pierre, RSPB conservation officer, said they were keen to involve more people in helping protect the unique natural heritage of the islands.
"We want this project to help these islands make more of their seabird heritage and to strengthen still further their image as a seabird-friendly destination through the use of various media, including web technology, for an ever wider audience," he said.
"Those involved will be working closely with the local community to help them make the most of this important part of the islands' economy.
"In sharing this experience with similar communities elsewhere, we hope this will encourage and support others in giving their seabirds a brighter future."
Richard Bellamy, head of the HLF South West, said it was worth the money.
"We have some wonderful native wildlife on the Isles of Scilly and collectively we have a responsibility for its survival."
