Fewer wild birds have been attacked or killed unlawfully

Figures released by the charity show that in 2002 there were 53 recorded crimes against birds and their nests, but this fell to 37 in 2003.

The RSPB said buzzards, swans and house martins were all victims of attacks.

A spokesman said that though the figures were encouraging "there are still problems in the region".

Figures for reported incidents 2003 Cornwall - 4 Devon - 15 Dorset - 7 Somerset - 5 Wiltshire - 6

Chris Townend, RSPB conservation officer said: "Much of what we know relies on the public reporting incidents of bird crime to the RSPB and to the police, through their local wildlife crime officer.

"Many of the incidents reported in the south west of England involve birds such as rooks, magpies and herring gulls and it's important to remember that these species are fully protected by law and may only be killed lawfully under very specific circumstances."