A shotgun shell is a type of ammunition designed for use in a shotgun. It typically consists of a cylindrical casing filled with gunpowder, a primer, and various projectiles, often called shot. When fired, the gunpowder ignites, propelling the shot out of the barrel in a spread pattern, making it effective for hunting birds and small game. Shotgun shells come in different sizes and types, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. Each type serves a specific purpose, with birdshot being ideal for small targets, buckshot for larger game, and slugs for precision shooting. The shells are color-coded to indicate their size and type for easy identification.