Zernyatko Lemon, 30 g are coloured mineral stones for birds with added lemon from the Ukrainian producer Zernyatko. The pack contains 2 stones of 15 g each. According to the manufacturer, they top up the minerals needed for a strong beak, bones and feathers, and the bright colours catch the bird's eye and spark interest. The stones are easy to fit in a cage or aviary. They suit parrots, canaries, finches and pigeons.
Why a bird needs a mineral stone
Seed mixes are low in calcium, yet birds need it for bones, feathers and beak, and females also need it for eggshells. A mineral stone lets the bird take in minerals whenever it needs them. Pecking at a hard surface also wears down the beak, which grows throughout life, and keeps the bird busy — gnawing, pecking and exploring. So a stone is useful even with good food. More on diet in budgies: food and care.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | mineral stones |
| Ingredients | minerals, lemon |
| Pack | 2 stones × 15 g (30 g in total) |
| For | parrots, canaries, finches, pigeons |
| Brand | Zernyatko, Ukraine |
Pros
- Minerals for beak and feathers. Complements a seed diet.
- Beak trimming. A hard surface for beak care.
- Something to do. Bright colours spark interest.
- Two stones per pack. For two cages or one as a spare.
- Easy to fit. Attaches to the cage bars.
- Very low price. Affordable for everyone.
Cons
- Vague ingredients. Which minerals and how much isn't stated.
- Lemon is mostly for flavour. Most birds make their own vitamin C, so the "extra source" matters little.
- Colourings aren't specified. The product page doesn't say what colours the stones.
- Doesn't fully replace cuttlebone. Many owners keep both in the cage.
How to fit the stone
Attach the stone to the cage bars next to a perch so the bird can peck at it while standing. Don't hang it above the water or food dish, or crumbs will fall in. If the bird ignores the stone for a long time, try moving it closer to a favourite spot or the feeder. Replace the stone when it's worn down, dirty or damp.
How often to replace it
How fast it goes depends on the bird: some parrots wear a stone down in a couple of weeks, others barely touch it. Keep an eye on its condition: if it's soiled or wet, swap it for the second stone in the pack. If a bird suddenly starts gnawing the mineral stone much more than usual, especially before laying, it may be short of calcium — discuss its diet with a vet.
Minerals and your bird's diet
A mineral stone complements the main food but doesn't replace it. For budgies, the basis is a quality seed mix such as Vitakraft Premium Menu, and for canaries Versele-Laga Prestige Canaries. Supplements such as ZelenaZoo Flax on the Stalk, plus fresh greens and vegetables, add variety.
How to choose a mineral stone
Small birds — budgies, canaries, finches — do well with small stones like this one. Large parrots need bigger mineral blocks they won't demolish in a day. If your bird has digestive issues, start with a plain stone without additives and watch its response.
Who it suits
Owners of budgies, canaries, finches and other small birds who want to give their pet a source of minerals and something to do in the cage for minimal cost. More supplements are in the bird treats and vitamins section, and cages in bird cages.
Verdict
Zernyatko Lemon are inexpensive coloured mineral stones for birds: they add minerals to a seed diet, help wear down the beak and keep the bird entertained. Two stones per pack make it easy to keep a spare. The downsides are the vague ingredient list, and the lemon is more about flavour than vitamins.
FAQ
How many stones are in the pack?
Two stones of 15 g each.
Which birds is it for?
Parrots, canaries, finches and pigeons.
Why lemon?
The manufacturer adds it as a source of vitamin C and for flavour.
What are the stones made of?
Minerals with added lemon.
How often should the stone be replaced?
When it's worn down, dirty or wet.
Can I do without a mineral stone?
Better not: seed mixes are low in calcium.
Is it suitable for large parrots?
Large birds are better off with bigger mineral blocks.
