Be sure to go to a reputable store that specializes in birds. These stores offer weaned babies that are easier for new owners to care for than unweaned or untamed birds. Birds are also available from bird breeders who specialize in one or two species. Bird breeders come in many varieties from pet owners presented with a nest of eggs all the way to ranchers who own hundreds of birds. Try to find a breeder that has both.
Birds are also available second hand from classified ads and from rescue organizations.
Be sure your source is honest about why the bird is available. If the bird owner or rescue association is asking for a donation or fee, ask them to justify this. The owner may want to get a return on his investment in the cage and other supplies and the rescue organization may need the money to cover veterinary fees. These are reasonable reasons for selling a bird. Just be sure to ask because if you are going to pay a significant fee you may prefer to purchase a baby with a health guarantee from a reputable pet store or breeder.