Most of the time I use shotguns for either doves, or walking hunts like squirrels, rabbits, and upland. I also live in a shotgun only deer state. For doves, you'er sitting in one spot so I will admit to waiting there with a chambered round and safety off. The rest of the times I'll either have (1)one partially in the chamber and safety off (this is possible only with pump actions...such as my trusty 870
). (2)Action closed and round chambered with safety on OR (3)safety off and magazine loaded with and empty closed chamber.
22 bolts I keep chamber empty (or spent shell)and safety off. My auto I keep safety on.
I'm left handed and so I do these things partially because safeties are slightly more awkard for me to operate and its just as easy for me to keep 'em off and quickly load the chamber (especially in a pump or a very short bolt like the 22s) . Basically as long as there's at least one link in the "chain of firing" broken I'm comfortable.