BIRD crime in Wiltshire and the southwest is on the decline, according to the RSPB.

Figures released this week show that there were only 37 recorded crimes against birds and their nests in the whole of the south west region, a fall of 16 from 2002.

Wiltshire had the third highest total, with six crimes against birds of prey, owls or other protected species recorded in 2003.

Devon had the highest figure, with 15 incidents on record.

Chris Townsend, RSPB conservation officer, said: "Obviously it is encouraging to see that the number of reported incidents is falling, but this included the shooting of a chough.

"Much of what we know relies on the public reporting of bird crime to the RSPB and to the police through their local wildlife crime officer.

"Many incidents reported in the south west of England involved birds such as rooks, magpies and herring gulls.

"It is important to remember that these species are fully protected by law and may only be killed lawfully under very specific circumstances."

Seven incidents were recorded in Dorset, five in Somerset and four in Cornwall.