There was a 26% fall in recorded bird of prey crimes during 2016, new figures show.
Crime maps produced by the Partnership for Action against Wildlife Crime (Paw Scotland) show 14 confirmed bird of prey offences compared to 19 the previous year.
Species illegally killed in 2016 included buzzards and a goshawk, while the golden eagle and osprey were victims of disturbance cases.
The maps also show four recorded incidents of poisoning, four shootings, three cases of disturbance and three trapping or attempted trapping offences.
In addition, confirmed poisoning incidents fell from six in 2015 to four last year.
This gave 2016 the second lowest number of recorded poisonings in a single year since Paw Scotland began publishing maps in 2004.
Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: "These latest maps from Paw Scotland demonstrate there has been a further reduction in recorded bird of prey crimes. While this is good news, there is still much work to be done.
"I have ordered a review of the data from satellite tagged birds of prey in an attempt to shed new light on the disappearance of a number of tagged birds.
"So while I welcome these figures today, my message remains clear: The illegal persecution of Scotland's magnificent birds of prey must end.
"The National Wildlife Crime Unit, now based in Stirling, plays an important role in protecting our wildlife.
"I'm delighted to confirm a further year of funding to allow the unit to continue its important work and help protect all of our wildlife, including birds of prey."
A spokesman for the Scottish Gamekeepers Association said: "The Scottish Government deserves credit for a targeted approach which is achieving results, with more measures due to be enforced regarding tougher penalties.
"No-one can change the past and no problem can be sorted overnight, but there is definite evidence of changing attitudes regarding crime against wildlife in Scotland.
"This is reflected in the figures and a general downward trend over the past five or so years. The SGA does not condone wildlife crime and seeks legal solutions only to solve species conflicts.
"Our membership, the vast majority of whom are wholly law abiding, are supportive of this stance and respect the clear message it sends."
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