The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeing a steady increase in sick and dead wild birds reported this September, including within Dubuque. H5 avian influenza or bird flu has been confirmed in Canada geese from two Dubuque sites, with a number of additional reports coming from the surrounding area, specifically Bergfeld and Heritage Ponds. The public is encouraged to keep their distance from sick geese or those that are easily approached without obvious sign of injury. Sick bird sitings can be reported to the Dubuque County Conservation. Poultry producers or people with backyard flocks who suspect bird flu are advised to immediately contact their veterinarian and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.