[kikkerthebudgie]

Kikker eats the shell sand that we use as bedding in her cage. At first I thought she was picking fallen seeds from the ground. So to make sure I switched to wood bedding and I put a little bit of the sand in a feeder. And indeed, she really seems to enjoy eating it! Is it good or bad for her? Can it be related to a need for calcium? She does not go near her cuttlebone though. She is 3 to 4 months old according to the breeder and didn't have her first molt. Could she be preparing to lay eggs despite her age?:yellow face:

 

[aluz]

To satisfy your Kikker's calcium needs it's best to have the cuttlebone/calcium block, a mineral block is also essential.
It's best to avoid giving shell sand/grit as this can cause a digestive upset and in more serious cases can lead to crop impaction: http://talkbudgies.com/diet-nutrition/86185-grit-should-you-offer-your-budgie.html

For lining the cage's bottom you can use plain newspaper.
Your Kikker may get other ideas when having a bedding made out of wood shavings and it's best to not tempt her to become broody.

From the photos you posted, Kikker no longer has the baby barring on the forehead area and she has at least a couple of her big girl throat spots.
By looking at her I'd say she is 4.5 to 5 months old.

Also if she has the tendency of wanting to hide and sits on the food bowl often and for long periods of time, it's best to find another type of food container for her. One with a smaller opening which will not allow her to get in and sit on it.

 

[FaeryBee]

aluz has offered you excellent advice and information. :2thumbs: