The government has called on residents to "think carefully" before engaging in the mercy releases of animals ahead of the Buddha's Birthday holiday on Monday.

The practice involves the freeing of animals in the belief that the act brings good karma and is one of the rituals that is typically carried out on Buddha's birthday.

But the releases have come under fire from social groups, especially animal welfare groups.

An Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) spokesman noted that some residents have gone about such releases without proper thought, such as releasing the animals into unsuitable habitats, which may affect their survival.

"Moreover, releasing non-native species or species that are incompatible with the local ecology may have adverse impacts on the natural environment," he added.

"As such, the government does not encourage the public to release animals."

The AFCD also said it would conduct timely inspections at locations where such activities are likely to take place on the day.

It warned the public that some improper releases might constitute offences that are liable to a fine of up to HK$200,000 and a prison term of up to three years upon conviction.

It urged people to consider joining other charitable activities instead on the day, such as planting trees or joining volunteer services with animal welfare groups or environmental groups.

Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden has over the past years stressed that many of the animals are weak and sick when they are purchased for mercy releases and are often captured from the wild just for the ritual.

“Many are injured or die during capture and during transportation due to shortage of food and water," it said last year.

Many are already sick and very weak, with a minimal chance of survival, it added.

The Buddha's birthday is celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, which this year lands on May 5. Hong Kong declared it a public holiday in 1998.