Tests have determined that a dead finch discovered last week in Hong Kong was carrying the deadly H5N1 strain of the bird flu virus, according to the city's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.

It was Hong Kong's first case this winter, officials said.

The remains of the bird - a Scaly-breasted Munia - was found by AFCD staff on Leighton Road in Causeway Bay on December 31.

A department spokesman on Saturday reminded Hong Kong residents to practice good personal hygiene.

"They should avoid touching wild birds and live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly if they do come into contact with them," he said.

All pet birds imported from the Chinese mainland must come from registered farms and be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate to certify they have been quarantined and tested for avian flu.

The spokesman emphasized that all consignments from the mainland are subject to health certification and must be inspected no matter whether they arrive by sea, air or land.

A report alleging there are no controls on imports from the mainland was incorrect, he said.

Mainland officials will inspect the birds before they sent for export to Hong Kong.

When the consignment arrives at Hong Kong's import control, department officers will inspect the birds' health conditions and verify health certification. Samples will be taken to test for avian flu.

About 38,000 Munia were imported into Hong Kong from the mainland in 2006. The group included White-backed Munia and Scaly-breasted Munia.

The Scaly-breasted Munia is indigenous to Hong Kong.

The department spokesman said all pet-bird traders must obtain a license and are being regularly inspected by AFCD officers.

"We have stepped up inspection of the Bird Garden from three times a week to five times a week," he said, referring to the city's main bird market.

"Samples are regularly collected for testing for avian influenza viruses. Of the 2,400 samples that were tested last year, none was positive for avian influenza."

The department has also contacted the Customs and Excise Department to maintain vigorous surveillance and control on illegal import or smuggling of birds.