A fall in the overall cost of rural crime last year has been welcomed by Police Scotland.
Insurer NFU Mutual said it cost £1.8 million in 2014, down from £1.9 million the previous year.
The items most commonly targeted by thieves over the 12-month period were all terrain vehicles (ATVs) such as quad-bikes, tools and livestock, according to its claims data.
Chief superintendent Gavin Robertson, chair of the Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC), said: “The reduction in the cost of NFU Mutual claims as detailed in this report is very welcome, however we acknowledge that much still needs to be done.”
Mr Robertson said that SPARC was working with partnership groups across the country to address local concerns.
“The issue of quad bike thefts was acknowledged by SPARC members at the first partnership meeting in June where such thefts along with the theft of livestock and sheep worrying were identified as priorities,” he said.
“We are aware of the thefts of all terrain vehicles predominantly in the south of the country, particularly as this increase is against a year-on-year reduction in overall vehicle crime since 2010.
“The rural communities of Scotland are safe places in which to live, work and visit.
“However, the nature of the environment and way of life means there are some specific crime prevention points that are worth bearing in mind.”
Martin Malone, NFU Mutual manager for Scotland, said: “That there’s been an overall decline in the cost of rural crime over the last 12 months is welcome news and reflects the huge efforts being made by communities and others to tackle this problem
“Initiatives aimed at reducing livestock theft and installing CESAR tracking for agricultural vehicles are having a real impact and making life increasingly difficult for rural criminals.
“That said, problem areas remain and thieves continue to exploit weaknesses such as around ATVs and tools.
“So, while today’s survey contains some good news, it also highlights the need for rural communities to remain vigilant and put security at the forefront of their minds.”