RE: Begginer
I have to agree with what MA Jay said - SAFETY FIRST! No bird is worth an injured person or dog.
One rule that I've been asked to follow and now have adopted is that if the gun is parallel with the ground, the bird is too low. Only take the birds that are high enough to shoot UP at. You have more time to point at the bird than you think so don't feel you have to take the shot the second he comes up. Don't shoot the "bouncers" - a bird that might jump and settle back down.
You'll have a great time - and let us know how it goes! It will be a heck of a rush when a rooster jumps up at your feet!