ST. LOUIS - The Missouri Department of Conservation is closely following several reports of sick and dead birds across the state, particularly waterfowl, over the last several weeks.

In a news release Tuesday, MDC stated it is investigating whether highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), otherwise known as bird flu, has contributed to a recent surge in sick and dead birds.

While MDC officials suspect bird flu may be driving the recent uptick, they are "actively collecting" information on birds to more precisely determine the cause.

Bird flu oftentimes spreads when migrating birds in North America come into contact with infected birds from Europe and Asia. According to MDC, the virus transmits between birds through feces, saliva, and nasal discharges.

"There is a risk for spillover from wild birds into domestic poultry and then back again from poultry to wild birds, resulting in further spread," says MDC.

MDC says neighboring states like Kansas and Iowa are experiencing similar problems. Nexstar affiliate WDAF simliarly reports that wildlife officials have been overwhelmed with calls of injured and dead birds, most notably geese, in the Kansas City region.

If you encounter a dead or injured bird, you should avoid contact with it and report information to the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Hunters should also take extra precautions by dressing game birds away from other birds and properly disposing of waste that could present risks to wildlife.

For more information on avian influenza in Missouri, click here.