It is hoped the study will help identify why numbers are falling

In the 1950s there were more than 1,000 pairs of puffins living around the island, but the current figures is now estimated at fewer than 200.

An increase in gulls, which are known to steal food from other species, could be part of the problem. Human activity and global warming may also be factors.

Now a year-long study by the Alderney Wildlife Trust is being launched.

Conservationists hope the monitoring initiative will provide better information about the declining population.