I recently went to the library and took out some real good bird care books. One of them, I strongly suggest to all people - inexperienced or not. It is written by Sheldon L. Gerstenfeld. It contains material from the small finch all the way to the magnificent macaw.
Why I am recommending this is due to the beginning called "Becoming an Owner" which the author explained his triumphs of bird owning. He witnessed a budgerigar, lonely in a cage with no companions in real bad condition. So this is where the author begins to basically say "Think before you get a bird!"
I, myself have seen so much neglect towards animals in my life. So before you get any pet- CONSIDER! Read things about them, get as much knowledge as you can before you obtain this dream pet! Many people just get a bird without any knowledge of their needs. Bird owning takes time and patience. One, that not all can handle.
If you have a pet, they need you. They need you more than you may ever think. So here is my plea. Do not be impulsive because you feel sorry for the bird or you just want company. Get a bird because you know for SURE you can take the responsibilities & you can give it a forever home full of love.
And thank you to all whom have done this, I know there are a whole lot of great pet owners out there.