Bird hunting

I would think any light (1 or 7/8 oz) load with #7 1/2 or 8 shot.

I've used Rem Heavy Dove loads in 20 ga with pretty good success on ruffies.
 
I typically use 1 1/8 oz of 7 1/2 shot, but 1 oz loads also work well. I prefer 7 1/2 shot over 8 for longer shots if presented, but it's a personal thing.
 
#8

But some well stocks shops will have shot shells with the bird's name on it. ie Quail shot, Goose shot, Duck shot etc.
 
Where are you hunting? And for which Species? My personal preferences:

1. California or Valley Quail- #7 1/2
2. Gambel's or Desert Quail- #6. Hunting these guys, you may encounter some open country and they will flush a little further out than Valley Quail.
3. Mountain Quail- #4- They are a little bigger than the others and having to take 50 or 60 yard shots isn't that unusual. Plus, the heavier shot will break bones at that range.
4. Mearn's Quail- #7 1/2. Don't forget the dogs! These guys will let you step on them before they flush.
5. Blue or Scaled Quail- # 6 for me. They are tough little buggers and run like antelope...
6. Bobwhite Quail. Can they really be called quail? They don't have any headgear...
 
Blues are fun little critters. I call 'em "run-run birds". :)

I've used high-brass 7-1/2 to good effect. Lots of shots at 40 yards and even more.
 
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