My top 5
Read, research, learn & keep learning!
Do as much species specific research you can to ensure you provide the best possible care for your new companion. Read all that you can, and always ask questions if unsure. Every day you will continue to learn based on your experiences with your new friend.
Check, double check & triple check!
Safety is very important. Getting into routines to ensure your bird is safe is very important. But it is easy to make mistakes, so always recheck. If you plan to have your birdy fly around in your house for exercise, always make sure the windows and doors are shut and that the door is locked so no-one can just walk in and open the door. Make sure you don't have any non stick pans in your kitchen as the fumes can kill. Always double check that cage doors are secured. So many bad things can happen to birds and unfortunately many of them are 100% preventable.
Always have emergency plans!
Have a bird first aid kit with basic emergency essentials.
Have savings put aside so if you have a medical emergency you are able to provide the care required. Have a good avian vet on hand. Have a travel cage / pet carrier on hand for emergency evacuations. You never know when seconds will count. Where is your nearest avain vet and how will you get there?
Be consistent & patient (It's never the birds fault)!
You only get out what you put in. If you put in time and patience you will be rewarded. Always be consistent in how you behave with your bird, if you are inconsistent they won't understand what is or isn't acceptable behaviour. If you accidentally scare them they can panic or lash out with a nasty nip or zoom off into a wall or window and hurt themselves.
Be prepared for mess!
Poop, food, feathers, dust, they are little mess factories. However much mess you expect, it's probably more than that
