Washington State Hunters Ed Practice Exam

How many shot shells can waterfowl and upland bird hunters load into their shotguns?

1. As many as the shotgun will hold

2. Only three shells

3. Two shells

4. Five shells

The correct answer is: Only three shells

Waterfowl and upland bird hunters are limited to loading only three shells into their shotguns. This regulation is in place to promote ethical hunting practices and ensure the sustainability of bird populations. The three-shell limit encourages hunters to be more selective and responsible in their shooting, ultimately supporting wildlife conservation efforts. While some shotguns can hold more than this number, the law specifically restricts the maximum number of shells for waterfowl and upland bird hunting to three, which includes one shell in the chamber and two additional shells in the magazine. Understanding these regulations is crucial for compliance and fostering a conservation mindset among hunters.