WP_Query Object
(
    [query] => Array
        (
            [post_type] => topic
            [post_parent] => any
            [meta_key] => _bbp_last_active_time
            [meta_type] => DATETIME
            [orderby] => meta_value
            [order] => DESC
            [posts_per_page] => 8
            [paged] => 1
            [show_stickies] => 1
            [max_num_pages] => 
            [update_post_family_cache] => 1
            [perm] => readable
        )

    [query_vars] => Array
        (
            [post_type] => topic
            [post_parent] => any
            [meta_key] => _bbp_last_active_time
            [meta_type] => DATETIME
            [orderby] => meta_value
            [order] => DESC
            [posts_per_page] => 8
            [paged] => 1
            [show_stickies] => 1
            [max_num_pages] => 
            [update_post_family_cache] => 1
            [perm] => readable
            [error] => 
            [m] => 
            [p] => 0
            [subpost] => 
            [subpost_id] => 
            [attachment] => 
            [attachment_id] => 0
            [name] => 
            [pagename] => 
            [page_id] => 0
            [second] => 
            [minute] => 
            [hour] => 
            [day] => 0
            [monthnum] => 0
            [year] => 0
            [w] => 0
            [category_name] => 
            [tag] => 
            [cat] => 
            [tag_id] => 
            [author] => 
            [author_name] => 
            [feed] => 
            [tb] => 
            [meta_value] => 
            [preview] => 
            [s] => 
            [sentence] => 
            [title] => 
            [fields] => 
            [menu_order] => 
            [embed] => 
            [category__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [category__not_in] => Array
                (
                )

            [category__and] => Array
                (
                )

            [post__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [post__not_in] => Array
                (
                )

            [post_name__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [tag__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [tag__not_in] => Array
                (
                )

            [tag__and] => Array
                (
                )

            [tag_slug__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [tag_slug__and] => Array
                (
                )

            [post_parent__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [post_parent__not_in] => Array
                (
                )

            [author__in] => Array
                (
                )

            [author__not_in] => Array
                (
                )

            [search_columns] => Array
                (
                )

            [ignore_sticky_posts] => 
            [suppress_filters] => 
            [cache_results] => 1
            [update_post_term_cache] => 1
            [update_menu_item_cache] => 
            [lazy_load_term_meta] => 1
            [update_post_meta_cache] => 1
            [nopaging] => 
            [comments_per_page] => 50
            [no_found_rows] => 
        )

    [tax_query] => WP_Tax_Query Object
        (
            [queries] => Array
                (
                )

            [relation] => AND
            [table_aliases:protected] => Array
                (
                )

            [queried_terms] => Array
                (
                )

            [primary_table] => wp_posts
            [primary_id_column] => ID
        )

    [meta_query] => WP_Meta_Query Object
        (
            [queries] => Array
                (
                    [0] => Array
                        (
                            [key] => _bbp_last_active_time
                            [type] => DATETIME
                        )

                    [relation] => OR
                )

            [relation] => AND
            [meta_table] => wp_postmeta
            [meta_id_column] => post_id
            [primary_table] => wp_posts
            [primary_id_column] => ID
            [table_aliases:protected] => Array
                (
                    [0] => wp_postmeta
                )

            [clauses:protected] => Array
                (
                    [wp_postmeta] => Array
                        (
                            [key] => _bbp_last_active_time
                            [type] => DATETIME
                            [compare] => =
                            [compare_key] => =
                            [alias] => wp_postmeta
                            [cast] => DATETIME
                        )

                )

            [has_or_relation:protected] => 
        )

    [date_query] => 
    [request] => 
					SELECT SQL_CALC_FOUND_ROWS  wp_posts.ID
					FROM wp_posts  INNER JOIN wp_postmeta ON ( wp_posts.ID = wp_postmeta.post_id )
					WHERE 1=1  AND ( 
  wp_postmeta.meta_key = '_bbp_last_active_time'
) AND ((wp_posts.post_type = 'topic' AND (wp_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wp_posts.post_status = 'closed' OR wp_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')))
					GROUP BY wp_posts.ID
					ORDER BY CAST(wp_postmeta.meta_value AS DATETIME) DESC
					LIMIT 0, 8
				
    [posts] => Array
        (
            [0] => WP_Post Object
                (
                    [ID] => 234
                    [post_author] => 6
                    [post_date] => 2019-01-20 08:46:25
                    [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-20 13:46:25
                    [post_content] => The Critter Forum is a place where new and experienced pet owners can post pictures, habitat guides, questions, and tips about all things related to pets.  We all want the same thing: good health and happiness for our pets.  So let's keep this place friendly, constructive, and supportive by following some basic rules:
  1. We encourage you to post these pet related things: pictures, habitats, questions, and anything else pet related.
  2. The Critter Forum is for all ages.  Absolutely no adult content. Users will be banned and reported.
  3. Be kind.  Everyone here wants to learn, and become better care givers for their pets.  Help others by sharing tips, knowledge, products, and tutorial videos.
  4. Be respectful of other people’s opinions and ideas. It’s okay to disagree and have different opinions, but present your case tactfully.  Everyone here wants the same thing: good health and happiness for their pet.
  5. No brigading or trolling.  Everyone wants to be an amazing pet-parent.  Rude remarks, trolling, and brigading doesn't encourage this, and discourages everyone from participating and learning.
  6. All posts must be relevant to the selected category.  For example, don’t discuss corn snakes on the bearded dragon category.
  7. All threads that are nothing but a ‘test’ or an ‘ad’ will be deleted.
  8. If you share irrelevant links, your comment or post will be deleted.  If the links are relevant to the thread, that’s fine. Please use your best judgment here.
  9. Please don’t use affiliate links in this forum. When you externally link, do it because you want to help someone, not because you see a quick opportunity to make some cash.
  10. Try to add value when you post. Don’t just type something along the lines of “What they said.”
  11. Use proper grammar to the best of your ability. We understand that English may not be everyone’s main language, but make an attempt. You won’t get in trouble for a misplaced comma or for typos, but it would help everyone if you could make sure everyone understands your message.
[post_title] => House Rules [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => house-rules [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-01 07:53:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-01 12:53:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 177 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/forums/topic/house-rules/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 109635 [post_author] => 286689 [post_date] => 2024-03-26 20:40:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-03-27 00:40:28 [post_content] => Discover the amazing benefits of introducing crickets into your pet's diet! Crickets are not just another food option; they are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering high protein content, essential vitamins, minerals, and even fostering natural hunting instincts in pets like reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small mammals. This guide delves deep into the fascinating world of feeder insects, highlighting the differences between house and banded crickets to help you make the best choice for your furry or scaly friend. Learn how crickets can not only nourish your pet but also provide mental stimulation and enhance their quality of life. Plus, crickets are a sustainable choice, easy to procure, and simple to maintain, making them an ideal choice for busy pet owners. Whether you're considering house crickets for their versatility and nutritional balance or the moisture-rich banded crickets for bigger pets, this article covers everything you need to know to elevate your pet care routine in an eco-friendly way. Click here to dive into the full article and unlock the secret to a happier, healthier pet! [post_title] => Selecting Crickets: Sizes, Species, and What's Best for Your Needs. [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => selecting-crickets-sizes-species-and-whats-best-for-your-needs [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-03-26 20:44:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-03-27 00:44:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 177 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/forums/topic/selecting-crickets-sizes-species-and-whats-best-for-your-needs/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 109632 [post_author] => 6 [post_date] => 2024-03-22 06:08:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-03-22 10:08:55 [post_content] =>

Why are Crickets so Popular

Crickets are the most popular feeder insect.  However, this may be seem a little odd if you survey the reptile community.  Many experience keepers prefer superworms or dubias over crickets.  Some of the common complains with crickets is that they small, and that they will bite.  And if their habitat is not properly cared for, they can also get parasites, which can harm your pet. But they are popular for many reasons.  First, they are packed with lean protein.  This protein content is great for young dragons.  Young dragons need alot of protein to grow, and they'll enjoy the hunt of chasing down the crickets.  Additionally, crickets breed much faster than dubias and superworms.  This means they are in more abundance, which means you can get more crickets for less money compared to superworms. Crickets are a good food source for your reptiles.  But a good reptile keeper will know to vary their diet with other insects. [post_title] => Are Crickets the Best Food for Reptiles [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => are-crickets-the-best-food-for-reptiles [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-03-22 06:09:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-03-22 10:09:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 177 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/?post_type=topic&p=109632 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 109626 [post_author] => 6 [post_date] => 2024-03-20 06:22:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-03-20 10:22:56 [post_content] =>

Composting Grubs to Kick Start Composting

Composting bins can be found in every gardeners arsenal.  This is great way to breakdown food waste and scraps, to create nitrogen-rich fertilizer.  But sometimes our compost bins need a boost.  And composting grubs (black soldier fly larvae) are a great addition to any compost pile.  They will break down nearly any food waste product, including meat, dairy, oily products, citrus, and everything else.  This means they are superior than red worms in composting.  And will yield an amazing fertilizer for your lawn and garden. Additionally, composting grubs are great for chickens.  If you're a homesteader who composts and keeps chickens, then this can be a dual purpose activity that will net compost and healthy chickens with great eggs. Learn more about our composting grubs and why they are the best way to get a compost bin started. [post_title] => Composting Grubs - Get your compost bin started [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => composting-grubs-get-your-compost-bin-started [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-03-20 06:22:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-03-20 10:22:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/?post_type=topic&p=109626 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 231 [post_author] => 6 [post_date] => 2019-01-19 08:07:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-19 13:07:31 [post_content] =>

Every month, we're giving away a year supply of free feeder insects. 

And the rules are simple:

  1. Post a picture of your amazing pet, their kooky personalities, their adventurous habitats or anything else pet related (important: the month that your picture is posted, is the monthly contest that you are eligible to win).  But how do I do this?  Click the Start a Topic button in the upper right hand corner.  Upload your picture, and give it the title Cricket Contest.  
  2. Collect the most Critter Gold for the month (read below to find out more information on Critter Gold)
  3. And Boom!  You just won a year supply of FREE crickets

What is Critter Gold and how do I collect it?

Critter Gold is a reward system (see here).  Every community member has the opportunity to reward interesting posts with Critter Gold.  If you want to win a year supply of free crickets, post an interesting picture of your pet or habitat so that community members will reward your post with gold. And anytime you see amazing animals, interesting habitats, or anything else that strikes your fancy, be sure to reward that post with Critter Gold as well.

Announcing the Winners!

  • The winner will be announced within 48 hours by the end of each month.
  • The winner will be awarded a coupon code for 500 free crickets.  This coupon code will be honored for 12 purchases.  Winners may also use these coupons to purchase other feeders like superworms, dubia roaches, and black soldier fly larva.
  • Winners may continue posting pictures, topics, and questions.  But they are not eligible to win until 12 months since they won.
  • And we will keep a running list of the winning posts listed here.

Past Winners

  1. February 2019 - 20 Critter Gold
  2. March 2019 - 21 Critter Gold
  3. April 2019 - 12 Critter Gold
  4. May 2019 - 11 Critter Gold
  5. June 20199 Critter Gold
  6. July 2019 - 15 Critter Gold
  7. August 2019 - 23 Critter Gold
  8. September 2019 - 48 Critter Gold
  9. October 2019 - 33 Critter Gold
  10. November 2019 - 5 Critter Gold
  11. December 2019 - 36 Critter Gold
  12. January 2020 - 49 Critter Gold
  13. February 2020 - 23 Critter Gold
  14. March 2020 - 24 Critter Gold
  15. April 2020 - 61 Critter Gold
  16. May 2020 - 38 Critter Gold
  17. June 2020 - 93 Critter Gold
  18. July 2020 - 42 Critter Gold
  19. August 2020 - 36 Critter Gold
  20. Setpember 2020 - 8 Critter Gold
  21. October 2020 - 25 Critter Gold
  22. November 2020 - 15 Critter Gold
  23. January 2021 - 56 Critter Gold
  24. March 2021 - 17 Critter Gold
  25. May 2021 - 58 Critter Gold
  26. June 2021 - 6 Critter Gold
  27. July 2021 - 14 Critter Gold
  28. August 2021 - 13 Critter Gold
  29. September 2021 - 14 Critter Gold
  30. October 2021 - 11 Critter Gold
  31. November 2021 - 16 Critter Gold
  32. December 2021 - 26 Critter Gold
  33. January 2022 - 16 Critter Gold
  34. February 2022 - 30 Critter  Gold
  35. March 2022 - 26 Critter Gold
  36. April 2022 - 23 Critter Gold
  37. May 2022 - 7 Critter Gold
  38. June 2022 - 9 Critter Gold
  39. July 2022
  40. August 2022 - 5 gold
  41. September 2022 - 3 gold
  42. October 2022
  [post_title] => Win a Year supply of FREE Feeder Insects [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => win-a-year-supply-of-free-crickets [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-04-06 05:41:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-04-06 09:41:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/forums/topic/win-a-year-supply-of-free-crickets/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 66394 [post_author] => 126936 [post_date] => 2022-09-18 13:21:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-09-18 17:21:38 [post_content] => Lucky loves the sun! ☀️ [post_title] => Cricket Contest - September 2022 Winner! [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => cricket-contest-1042 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-10-06 07:28:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-10-06 11:28:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 64 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/forums/topic/cricket-contest-1042/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 109593 [post_author] => 6 [post_date] => 2024-01-20 07:33:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-01-20 12:33:34 [post_content] => Even during the winter months, it's important that we feed our bearded dragons and leopard geckos.  Shipping live crickets is challenging.  But an experienced vendor will know how to package so that they survive the transit. But what do you do after you receive the crickets?  There are many things cricket keepers need to know.  First, they need temps between 75-90 degrees.  So if it's frosty outside, you'll need to keep them inside.  You may hesitate at this thought due to cricket odor.  So use vermiculite for their bedding material.  This will help absorb any odor that may build up. Crickets will also do better with higher humidity.  This is challenging because higher humidity can yield stronger odors.  So again, use vermiculite for the bedding.  Humidity levels should be about 70%. And as usual, gut load your crickets.  You can use Critter Depot's gut load.  Or you can gut load them yourself with fresh vegetables.  These fresh vegetables will also hydrate them. You can follow this guide on how to care for crickets in the winter months. [post_title] => How to care for Crickets in the Cold [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-care-for-crickets-in-the-cold [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-01-20 07:33:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-01-20 12:33:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 177 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/?post_type=topic&p=109593 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 103245 [post_author] => 264495 [post_date] => 2023-08-30 19:29:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-08-30 23:29:58 [post_content] => I need clarification on enclosure temperature gradient, heat sources, & feeding. What is considered the ‘Basking Surface’? Is this the floor of the warm side or the surface of the hide on the warm side? During the day on the warm side of my tank, a thermometer 2 inches from the floor reads 91 and inside the warm hide is 88. The surface of the warm hide can reach 97. Does there need to be a heat source at night? I only use a heat lamp and a UVA/UVB lamp during the day & turn them off at night. At night, the temperature in the tank does not drop below 67 degrees on the cool side and 73 on the warm side. I’m in Florida and sun is up by 7am and goes down around 830pm. Lights mirror those times. According to when lights turn on, what would be the best times to feed? [post_title] => New Leopard Gecko Owner [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => new-leopard-gecko-owner-2 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-08-31 05:54:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-08-31 09:54:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 68 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/forums/topic/new-leopard-gecko-owner-2/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 109354 [post_author] => 6 [post_date] => 2023-10-19 04:24:11 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-10-19 08:24:11 [post_content] => Getting baby chicks in the mail is exciting and rewarding!  But they have needs.  Setting up their chick brooder is important to sustain their health, safety, and satisfaction.  Their brooder needs adequate heat, water, bedding and food.  But it also needs to be protected from predators.  Because there baby chicks are appetizing to a variety of ferrets, snakes, and other carnivores. So if you're trying to gauge their health and happiness, here are 7 distinct signs that will let you know if your baby chicks need your help. [post_title] => Chick Crisis: 7 Alarming Signs Your Baby Chicks are Screaming for Help! [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => chick-crisis-7-alarming-signs-your-baby-chicks-are-screaming-for-help [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-10-19 04:30:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-10-19 08:30:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 109357 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/?post_type=topic&p=109354 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 9 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 109635 [post_author] => 286689 [post_date] => 2024-03-26 20:40:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2024-03-27 00:40:28 [post_content] => Discover the amazing benefits of introducing crickets into your pet's diet! Crickets are not just another food option; they are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering high protein content, essential vitamins, minerals, and even fostering natural hunting instincts in pets like reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small mammals. This guide delves deep into the fascinating world of feeder insects, highlighting the differences between house and banded crickets to help you make the best choice for your furry or scaly friend. Learn how crickets can not only nourish your pet but also provide mental stimulation and enhance their quality of life. Plus, crickets are a sustainable choice, easy to procure, and simple to maintain, making them an ideal choice for busy pet owners. Whether you're considering house crickets for their versatility and nutritional balance or the moisture-rich banded crickets for bigger pets, this article covers everything you need to know to elevate your pet care routine in an eco-friendly way. Click here to dive into the full article and unlock the secret to a happier, healthier pet! [post_title] => Selecting Crickets: Sizes, Species, and What's Best for Your Needs. [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => selecting-crickets-sizes-species-and-whats-best-for-your-needs [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-03-26 20:44:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-03-27 00:44:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 177 [guid] => https://critterfam.com/forums/topic/selecting-crickets-sizes-species-and-whats-best-for-your-needs/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => topic [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 1889 [max_num_pages] => 236 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => [is_tag] => [is_tax] => [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => 1 [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => 67d4e366cdfa96d19257f7c68af10beb [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) [posts_per_page] => 8 [paged] => 1 [pagination_links] => 1 2 3 235 236 237 )


(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});