Hong Kong citizens are forbidden to feed doves under the threat of a fine and dispossession for fear of avian flu.

A Hong Konger feeding doves will be obliged to pay a fine of 1500 Hong Kong dollars (USD 190). Besides, they will be given 5 points of penalty.

According to the current rules, the citizens dwelling in state-owned flats may be dispossessed if they receive more than 16 point of penalty during a two-year term. One can also be given points for throwing garbage out of the windows, breaking hygiene rules and for several other minor offences.

The penalty points system for Hong Kong citizens dwelling in state-owned housing was introduced in 2003 after an epidemic of atypical pneumonia.