What bird is best for a first-time bird owner? {choosing best answer}?

A canary or a finch would be perfect for a first time bird owner. A budgie would be great as well. You should be aware that only male canaries sing and only male budgies speak. Female canaries don't sing and female budgies don't speak at all. So if this is important to you you might want to buy a male bird. You can tell the difference between a male and female budgies just by looking at them but usually not when they are very young. And you would probably prefer a young bird. Most people only think of "ordinary budgies" and think budgies are boring but they are fun to watch (especially when you buy two which I recommend) and they come in many lovely colors, not only in blue. Oh and I know, budgies are parakeets but they make awesome first time birds :) If I had to choose between a finch and a canary I think I would get a canary.