The terns were painted by local school children

Decoy terns made of wood, painted by local schoolchildren, are to be used to tempt the birds back to a tiny shingle island along the Hayle Estuary.

The strategy has already proved a success along the coast of Maine.

It is hope passing terns will see there is a safe place to land and join their impassive neighbours.

'Pleasant sanctuary'

Shingle beaches are the birds' preferred habitat , but noisy holidaymakers who use the beaches are being blamed for its demise in the county.

The decoys are placed on a tiny shingle island

Jenny Parker, an RSPB warden, said: "We're just trying to mimic their natural habitat.

"The purpose of the decoys is to persuade the wild birds it's a safe and pleasant sanctuary for them."

The charity is hopeful the decoys will convince the terns to stay.

"They do pass through and use the island for roosting purposes," said David Flumm, RSPB site manager.

"We're optimistic it will encourage them to stay and nest."