I am so interested in pet birds and I've been reading like crazy. The question I'm posing is this:
Where can I get more education - but not necessarily a degree. I am more of a hands-on type of person. I retain more that way. However, I'm not opposed to class time work.
I'd love to volunteer at the local bird rescue but the manager is a bit of a flake and I don't think I would glean much from her. (sorry to say)

There is no other "bird" store within a reasonable distance (especially since I do have a full time job that I will maintain ... and a gas-sucking pick up truck).
I should specify - One well known bird pet store is 1 hr away and one is 45 minutes in the other direction.

Does any one have creative suggestions? I'd love to hear them.
I think perhaps I'm still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up!

Thanks!
Kim

Yes, I have a couple... Since you live in Illinois how far from chacago are you? I know a vet that has an office just outside of Chicago who is a good avian vet. He might be one to contact and ask questions to. He might know of some breeders in your area and maybe you could contact them and pick their brains and gain a mentor etc.

I'll have to look up his exact address but I know he's just a little ways from Chicago.