A sick peregrine falcon found in Ma Wan has tested positive in a preliminary examination for H5 avian flu, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department of Hong Kong says, adding confirmatory tests are being conducted.

It was collected March 8 in bushes near Pak Lai Road on Park Island and died the same day. The species is a scarce resident and a winter visitor to Hong Kong.

The department will remind poultry farmers to enhance precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian flu and will send letters to farmers, bird shop owners, poultry licence holders and racing pigeon owners to take precautions.

It will inspect poultry farms and the wholesale market and continue wild bird monitoring and surveillance.

People are reminded to observe good personal hygiene and avoid personal contact with wild birds, live poultry and their droppings.