[SteveHL]

Hi Chris.
I think the best way to start is to visit the local park. If the birds are feed there start with them, if there's squirrels and or deer that are used to people cut your teeth on them. As you get competent with the camera and your lenses limitations more out to more challenging locations.
Its got to be fun and rewarding so at the beggining go for shots you know you can get. As you progress and move on to harder species your returns deminish alarmingly.
Get yourself a good wildlife photography book, and ask questions, loads of them. There is a wealth of knowledge on here just waiting to be tapped into.
Have fun, go for it.
Cheers