ORIGINAL: jepcho
The first year I hunted I shot one with a 20ga. He hit the ground then jumped up about 5 feet in the air and took off!! He couldn't fly so I tried to find him but never did see him again.
My first bird (circa 1978) was knocked flat & with a load of Winchester 12GA 3" Mag #4's. He got up & ran to my left and I shot him on the run at about 40yds with a load of #2's. I learned quick & try to get them in a lot closer. We learn as we go.