Birds require more attention and detail with their care then some might realize.
A bird will spend the majority of its time confined in a cage. Therefore, choose the largest cage you can accommodate in your home. Allow width for wingspan extension and height for birds with long tail feathers. The cage should be made from a nontoxic material, and will need to be strong enough to withstand dismantling attempts by the bird.
Choose perches that are easy to clean and easily replaceable. Give birds (depending on species) different perching options.