Police are appealing for information following the death of a bird of prey found in the Dulsie area near Nairn.
The carcass of a buzzard was found in woodland in the area on March 15.
A post-mortem established the bird was shot and subsequently died of its injuries.
Wildlife Crime officer Constable Daniel Sutherland said: “Positive work is constantly ongoing in the Highlands in relation to raptor persecution so it is sad and disappointing to find another incident like this reported to us.
“I am grateful to the member of the public who came across the bird and reporting it. Our enquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing.”
Ian Thomson, RSPB Scotland’s Head of Investigations said: “It’s clear that this bird suffered a lingering and agonising death as a result of a deliberate criminal act.
“Very few people local to where this bird was targeted would have the both equipment or a motive to kill birds of prey.
“We ask that if anyone has any information about the death of this buzzard or indeed any other raptor persecution offences that they pass this to the police as soon as possible.”
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police by calling 101.