I too was just going to mention the house vs apartment thing....
that is VERY important...

Does anyone know if the statement I have been told is true:
A Macaws scream can be heard up to 5 miles away?
I have never lived with one, tho one did live across the lake from me, and i could certainly tell you when he wasnt happy!

Well we live in condo units that are privately owned, and we own ours so I don't think that would be a problem, but as I said we probably won't be here by the time we buy a bird. I am a teacher and get off around 4 are they ok being home from 7 to 4?

I have three and can only hear mine as I approach my front door. (That is, of course, with the windows closed)

Someone recommended working my way up to a larger bird by starting with a medium bird. If we went that route what would you recommend? The only problem I have with that is that I would probably end up with 3 or more birds which at this point I just want one or two

You may change your mind and find you only want one.

Medium: my vote - an Eclectus.

I think you are doing the right thing to research before you buy a bird and get the right one. If you live in a condo, there is probably some kind of co-op that sets rules about pets so check with them. Macaws are very loud and you can be sure your neighbors will complain.

What sort of relationship do you want with your bird? How much time can you spend with your bird?

I would like a bird that is very interactive and loves me and my fiance, however not a bird that is going to resort to self-mutilation if left during the day while I am at work. I am a teacher so I am gone from 7 to 4 at the latest. I am willing to devote time, however to it whenever I am home. I am a devout dog handler and love spending time with my animals.

Most of us work full time jobs, so our birds are at home during those hours. What Tiki was asking is how much time you will be able to devote to your bird once you get home. It is a long-term commitment owning a bird. They need love time, but also need to learn independence and play outside of the cage while not velcroed to you. They also need supervision, as they can easily get into things they should not which could result in death.

Should you end up purchasing a bird, you will soon find that they become your "children" and are members of your family.

We are both completely up for that challenge. I said this earlier but we do have a doberman and a min pin and I don't know if you have ever been around either breed, but the birds sound just as demanding as my puppers. I can't go to one room of my place without either one of them, and my dobie is a working dog so she is constantly needing attention and a "job" to do

I am I right in saying 1 to 2 hours a day of attention that the birds need? That I am willing to do