# McCloud Services > A Leader In Integrated Pest Management Solutions Since 1904 --- ## Pages - [Commercial Mosquito Control](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/mosquito-control/): Don’t let mosquitoes drive customers away. With mosquito control from McCloud Services, you’ll see results after just one visit. Our... - [Commercial Drain Cleaning & Bioremediation Solutions](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/drain-line-service/): Why is investing in drain cleaning and bioremediation a smart move for businesses? Daily use causes fats, oils, grease, and... - [Terms of Use](https://mccloudservices.com/terms-of-use/): Introduction 1. 1 These terms and conditions shall govern your use of our website https://mccloudservices. com. 1. 2 By using... - [Pest Control for Schools](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/schools-and-daycares/): Ant trails near the snack cart? Fruit flies buzzing around the nurse’s office? It doesn’t take much for a concerned... - [How to Prevent Ants in Food Processing Facilities](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/food-processing/how-to-prevent-ants/): The Definitive Guide to Ant Prevention for Food Plants Ants consistently rank as one of the most common pest complaints... - [Pest Management for Retail Businesses](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/retail/): Success in retail requires an inviting aura that draws people in. The only downside for clothing boutiques, big box stores,... - [Commercial Rodent and Wildlife Exclusion](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/pest-exclusion/rodent-and-wildlife-exclusion/): No business owner needs more to worry about – especially not rodents and wildlife infesting their building. Left unchecked, these... - [Lumnia LED Fly Trap for Commercial Fly Control](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/lumnia-led-fly-trap/): Who wants to spend their time battling flies? Particularly in a business setting, they are far more than a mere... - [Pest Invasion Seminar 2023](https://mccloudservices.com/pestinvasion2023/) - [Site Disinfecting Service](https://mccloudservices.com/site-disinfecting-service/): Disinfecting Your Business for a Safer and Healthier Environment The rapid spread of COVID-19 has left many businesses facing the... - [Community Outreach](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/community-outreach/): At McCloud Services we support charitable giving programs in all the communities we serve. This commitment is important to the... - [Pest Invasion 2018 - Food Safety Seminar](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-invasion-seminar-2018/): Tuesday – January 23, 2018 Hamburger University at McDonald’s Campus 2715 Jorie Boulevard | Oak Brook, Illinois 60523 - [Customer Reviews](https://mccloudservices.com/customer-reviews/) - [Food Safety Training](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/food-safety-training/): McCloud Services offers The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe™ Food Safety Program for Managers. Your employees will learn about foodborne illnesses... - [Apply Now](https://mccloudservices.com/apply-now/) - [Request Sent](https://mccloudservices.com/request-sent/): Thank you for contacting McCloud Services. We have received your request and a confirmation email will be sent to you... - [News & Media](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/news-and-media/) - [Employee Resources](https://mccloudservices.com/employee-resources/): PESTI Login McCloud Email Access McCloud University UniFirst Uniforms - [Complete Service Listing](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/complete-service-portfolio/): McCloud Services uses an integrated approach to rodent management. Our service specialists inspect the interior and exterior of the facility... - [Engagement](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/benefits/engagement/) - [Career Path](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/career-path/): We are proud that our employees come from diverse work backgrounds. Whether they have previous experience in pest management or... - [Our History](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/our-history/): McCloud Services was founded in 1904 by William Bailey McCloud as W. B. McCloud & Company, located in Chicago, Illinois.... - [Professional Stored Product Pest Prevention](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/stored-product-pest-protection/): Stored product pests can cause serious problems if you manage a business that stores, processes, or sells grain and dry... - [Office Locations](https://mccloudservices.com/office-locations/): CUSTOMER SERVICE Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Tel: 800-332-7805 | Email: CustomerService@mccloudservices. com Chicago Service... - [Organic Compliant Program](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/organic-compliant-program/): McCloud Services’ organic pest management programs are natural extensions of our Integrated Pest Management and environmental philosophies. For those seeking... - [LEED Compliant Programs](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/leed-compliant-programs/): Our pest management program for LEED certified facilities relies on prevention as the primary means of dealing with pests. Non-chemical... - [Electronic Data Collection](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/electronic-data-collection/): Communication and Documentation of Services Communication and documentation are critical components of the partnership we have with our clients. Our... - [Benefits](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/benefits/): At McCloud Services, we are committed to offering our team members a wide range of benefit options. Our team member’s... - [About McCloud](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/): Pest Management for the Modern World: Protecting Health, Food, Property and the Environment McCloud Services was founded in 1904 in... - [Collapse Trial](https://mccloudservices.com/collapse-trial/) - [Fly Management](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/fly-management/): Flies are vectors for disease traveling from sewage to the dinner plate. McCloud Services’ No Fly Zone™ program protects your... - [Bird Management](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/bird-management/): encounters many unfortunate situations in which pest birds have caused structural damage to a facility, destroyed a property, contaminated products,... - [Fumigation](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/fumigation/): McCloud Services’ fumigation programs are uniquely designed to meet today’s challenges. They protect human health, provide food safety, and brand... - [Pest Exclusion](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/pest-exclusion/): Many of the urban pests that enter a structure originate from the exterior environment. This includes pests like commensal rodents,... - [Bed Bug Management](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/bed-bug-management/): We realize how damaging a single bed bug sighting can be, which is why we offer highly effective bed bug... - [All Other Industries](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/all-other/): The Most Extensive Coverage for your Business Pests in commercial environments can be more than a nuisance; they can be... - [Home Protection Plan](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/residential-pest-control/home-protection-plan/): Protect Your Home from Unwanted Guests Household pests can be more than a nuisance; they can be a threat to... - [FAQ's](https://mccloudservices.com/faqs/) - [Talent & Training](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/talent-training/): We are proud that our employees come from diverse work backgrounds. Whether they have previous experience in pest management or... - [Open Jobs](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/open-jobs/): Join McCloud’s Elite Team of Pest Management Professionals Welcome! We are always looking for top talent! If you do not... - [Why McCloud](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/why-mccloud/): We strive to provide a great place to work and create an environment that inspires and cultivates success OUR CORE... - [Termite Management](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/termite-management/): Subterranean termites generally develop and infest from colonies in soil. Most commonly they enter a building through structural wood or... - [Residential](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/residential-pest-control/): Protect Your Home from Unwanted Guests Household pests can be more than a nuisance; they can be a threat to... - [City Municipalities](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/city-municipalities/) - [Pest Control for Manufacturing and Logistics](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/manufacturing/): How Our Pest Control for Manufacturing and Logistics Protects Your Business Who has time for a pest infestation? Your business... - [Hospitality](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/hospitality/): Helping You Provide the Ultimate Guest Experience In a sensitive environment such as yours, proper management of pests is critical... - [Effective Pest Control for Property Management](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/property-management/): When Your Business is Protecting Property, Let McCloud Protect You Pest control shouldn’t add to the stress of property management.... - [Pharmaceuticals](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/pharmaceuticals/): Programs Designed for Your Pharmaceutical Facility Custom designed programs based on initial and continuing site analysis to pinpoint needs and... - [Other Industries](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/): Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Property Management Hospitality Manufacturing Retail Schools & Daycares - [Healthcare Facility Pest Prevention](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/healthcare/): Facility managers play a key role in keeping healthcare spaces safe, clean, and pest-free. Even a brief lapse can have... - [Request a Quote](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/customer-service/request-a-quote/): hbspt. forms. create({ portalId: "2602531", formId: "9abd0667-5f7b-4f71-b1b6-5c543fbb15d3", region: "na1" }); Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you.... - [IPM Program Design](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/ipm-program-design/): McCloud Services can provide you with recommendations for an effective IPM Program that meets all third party audit standards and... - [Risk Assessment](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/risk-assessment/): McCloud Services’ team of board-certified entomologists have the experience, knowledge and determination to help businesses validate existing pest management programs... - [Third-Party Audit Prep](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/third-party-audit-prep/): McCloud Services knows how critical it is in the food industry to undergo a third-party audit to ensure facilities comply... - [Customized Training](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/customized-training/): Food Safety Presentations Classroom-based food presentations on food safety issues Pest Management Training Training on pest biology and management and... - [Consumer Complaints](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/consumer-complaints/): McCloud Services can help you by doing a thorough assessment of your facility, and practices, to identify potential areas of... - [Contracted Audits](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/contracted-audits/): McCloud Services can audit your contracted storage facilities, or suppliers, to provide you with assurances that these facilities are in... - [Schedule a Service](https://mccloudservices.com/schedule-a-service/): hbspt. forms. create({ portalId: "2602531", formId: "9abd0667-5f7b-4f71-b1b6-5c543fbb15d3", region: "na1" }); Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you.... - [IPM](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/ipm/): Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management. IPM focuses... - [Stored Product Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/stored-product-pests/): Indianmeal Moth Color: Copper reddish coloring on outer part of wings Legs: 6 Shape: Elongated oval Size: 5/8 – 3/4... - [Identify a Pest](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/): Worried about what pests may be damaging your property? Determine what insects or other bugs are pestering you, and learn... - [Food Safety Consulting](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/): McCloud Services offers comprehensive consultations for your facility. These services provide an analysis of the current state of: Pest management... - [Pest Management Services](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/): McCloud Services designs pest management programs specifically for the commercial marketplace that are the ideal choice for businesses and industries... - [Customer Service](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/customer-service/): Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us to speak to a Customer Service Representative immediately... - [Rodents](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/rodents/): You can find more helpful rodent prevention tips in the PDF download below: Download PDF - [Ants](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/ants/): Carpenter Ant Color: Usually red, black or a combination Legs: 6 Shape: Segmented with 3 main body regions Size: ¼... - [Flies](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/flies/): Small Fruit Fly Color: Tan / light with light and dark banding on the abdomen and eyes red in color... - [Bed Bugs](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/bed-bugs/): Color: Mahogany to red-brown Legs: 6 Shape: Flat, broad oval when unfed; swollen and elongated when fed. Size: 1/4 inch... - [Other Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/other-pests/): American Dog Tick Color: Brown with whitish to gray markings Legs: Larvae have 6 legs, nymphs and adults have 8... - [Cockroaches](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/cockroaches/): American Cockroach Color: Reddish-brown, with a yellowish figure 8 pattern on the shield behind the head Legs: 6 Shape: Oval... - [Food Packaging](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/packaging/): Protecting You So You Can Package the Goods We understand the relationship between pest management, food safety and business work... - [Food Industry](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/): Commodity Food Processing Food Packaging Food Distribution Grocery Restaurants - [Commodity](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/commodity/): The management of pests in commodity storage facilities requires a high degree of expertise, professionalism, and knowledge. Our pest management... - [Food Processing](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/food-processing/): Protecting Your Facility While You Feed the World We understand the relationship between pest management, food safety, and business to... - [Food Distribution](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/food-distribution/): Protecting You So You Can Deliver the Goods We understand the relationship between pest management, food safety and business to... - [Grocery](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/grocery/): Helping You Provide the Ultimate Shopping Experience Your company works hard to attract and maintain loyal customers. A pest sighting... - [Tailored Pest Management for Foodservice Businesses](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/restaurants/): Your pest problem is our top priority. Running a restaurant, café, bar, bistro, industrial kitchen, dining hall, or any other... - [Home](https://mccloudservices.com/): McCloud Services is a leader in integrated pest management solutions in the food supply chain of custody, health care, hospitality,... - [Contact Us](https://mccloudservices.com/contact/): Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us to speak to a Customer Service Representative 800-332-7805... - [Careers](https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/): In today’s market, professional pest management is critical to protecting brand, reputation and bottom line. McCloud Services is a leader... - [Customers](https://mccloudservices.com/customers/): Customers are the Reason We Exist We put our customers at the center of everything we do. Customer satisfaction is... - [Industries We Serve](https://mccloudservices.com/industries/): We take pride in our ability to resolve the toughest pest management challenges for industries in businesses and commercial facilities.... - [How Can We Help?](https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/) --- ## Posts - [5 Essential Strategies to Protect Your Hospitality Business from Rodents](https://mccloudservices.com/5-ways-to-keep-rodents-out-of-hotels/): In the hospitality industry, keeping pests out is essential for creating positive guest experiences and protecting your brand. ’ comprehensive... - [What to Look for in a Commercial Pest Control Partner for Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/choosing-a-commercial-pest-control-partner/): Building your business has taken time, effort, and dedication, and every detail contributes to your success. But a single pest... - [Preventing Rodents in Healthcare Facilities: Our Guide](https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-rodents-in-healthcare-facilities/): Rodents are bad news for hospitals and medical centers. They carry germs that can make people sick, and they can... - [Pest Solutions for Healthcare Environments](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-solutions-for-healthcare-environments/): In , healthcare environments include a wide range of spaces such as patient rooms, lobbies, exam rooms, waiting areas, hallways,... - [How to Choose a Healthcare Pest Control Partner](https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-choose-a-healthcare-pest-control-partner/): Healthcare facilities face unique challenges when it comes to pest control, and the consequences of even a single sighting can... - [Prevent Pests from Invading Your Healthcare Facility](https://mccloudservices.com/prevent-pests-from-invading-your-healthcare-facility/): Pests can find countless entry points into healthcare facilities, from tiny cracks to overlooked gaps. The best defense is knowing... - [How to Control Mosquito Activity Around Your Hotel](https://mccloudservices.com/control-mosquito-activity-around-your-hotel/): Whether they’re traveling for business, relaxation, or a special celebration, guests expect a welcoming, mosquito-free environment. Even one pesky mosquito... - [Why Doctors’ Offices Should Consider Integrated Pest Management](https://mccloudservices.com/doctors-offices-integrated-pest-management/): Patients expect every part of your doctor’s office, from the lobby to the exam rooms, to be clean and hygienic.... - [How to Stop Flies from Entering Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/keep-flies-away-from-my-business/): More than a simple annoyance, flies are known to transmit dangerous pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella. For businesses, this... - [How Pests Affect Your Property Management Business](https://mccloudservices.com/how-pests-effect-your-property-management-business/): Pests may be small, but they can bring big challenges for property management teams. What starts as a minor issue... - [Professional Mosquito Control to Protect Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/mosquito-control-to-protect-your-business/): Rising temperatures lead to increased mosquito activity, bringing irritation and potential health hazards. Mosquitoes thrive in warm weather, making prevention... - [How to Stop Filth Flies from Invading Your Business This Summer](https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-stop-filth-flies-from-invading-your-business-this-summer/): Summer brings more than just heat; it also brings the persistent nuisance of filth flies. Though small, these pests can... - [What to Do if Your Restaurant Fails a Health Inspection (or Comes Close to Failing)](https://mccloudservices.com/what-to-do-after-a-poor-health-inspection/): As a restaurant owner or manager, you understand the importance of maintaining a clean environment for your customers – without... - [Prevent Small Flies in Bars, Restaurants, & Cafes With These 10 Tips](https://mccloudservices.com/tips-to-prevent-small-flies/): Small flies (including fruit flies, gnats, and drain flies), may be tiny but can cause major health hazards and sanitation... - [How to Deal With Stored Product Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-deal-with-stored-product-pests/): Stored product pests – also called pantry pests – are a major threat to any facility that deals with dried... - [Eco-Friendly Pest Control For Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/eco-friendly-pest-control-for-your-business/): Earth Day highlights the importance of sustainable practices in every aspect of business, including pest control. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)... - [Prevent pest activity in commercial receiving areas](https://mccloudservices.com/prevent-pest-activity-in-commercial-receiving-areas/): Receiving areas and loading docks are the lifeline of your business, as they keep products, ingredients, and supplies moving smoothly.... - [Protecting Food Processing Facilities from Birds](https://mccloudservices.com/protecting-food-processing-facilities-from-birds/): Food and beverage facilities clean their property everyday, but the risk of bird contamination is sometimes neglected. Pest birds like... - [What to Do When Birds are Near Your Business | McCloud Pest](https://mccloudservices.com/what-to-do-when-birds-are-near-your-business-mccloud-pest/): Controlling birds around your property Managing birds is a significant challenge for many businesses. Birds not only create unsightly exterior... - [Are Ant Sprays Effective at Keeping Ants Away?](https://mccloudservices.com/are-ant-sprays-effective-at-keeping-ants-away/): Businesses often face ant infestations, particularly in kitchens, break rooms, and outdoor spaces where food and shelter are easy to... - [3 Rodents to Look Out For in Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/3-rodents-to-look-out-for-in-your-business/): Millions of rodents live throughout the U. S. , so it’s crucial to be efficient in your pest control. No... - [Essential Tips for Selecting the Best Pest Control Plan for Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/essential-tips-for-selecting-the-best-pest-control-plan-for-your-business/): How to choose a pest control plan Routine professional pest control services provide a safeguard for your business against undesirable... - [Top 10 Pest Issues Facing Food Processing Facilities](https://mccloudservices.com/top-10-pest-issues-facing-food-processing-facilities/): Food processing facilities face a multitude of pest challenges on a daily basis. Each building is bound to have unique... - [Pest-Proofing Your Business: What You Need to Know](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-proofing-your-business-what-you-need-to-know/): How to Pest-Proof Your Business Pest infestations are more than just an inconvenience. They can damage property, harm your reputation,... - [Secure Your Business Against Rodents With Exclusion](https://mccloudservices.com/secure-your-business-against-rodents-with-exclusion/): As temperatures drop, rodents are on the lookout for cozy environments with ample food and water — conditions that commercial... - [Rodent Prevention Strategies For Every Business](https://mccloudservices.com/rodent-prevention-strategies-for-every-business/): Known for destroying property and products and spreading disease-causing pathogens, the presence of rodents can spell trouble for your Nashville... - [New Fly Trap Tech For Your Business](https://mccloudservices.com/commercial-fly-traps/): The presence of flies in your business without commercial fly light traps can lead to unsanitary conditions, health code violations,... - [Why Your Healthcare Facility Needs Expert Pest Control](https://mccloudservices.com/why-your-healthcare-facility-needs-expert-pest-control/): In healthcare facilities, there's a continuous flow of people coming and going. That's why pest problems tend to crop up... - [Protecting Your Hospitality Business and Guests From Bed Bugs](https://mccloudservices.com/protecting-your-hospitality-business-and-guests-from-bed-bugs/): Did you know that 80% of Americans are concerned about bed bugs at hotels? The unfortunate reality is, with travelers... - [German Cockroaches in Restaurants](https://mccloudservices.com/german-cockroaches-in-restaurants/): Cockroaches will arrive from a number of sources: vendors, packaging, employees, customers, etc. The key is to make it an... - [Common Ways Pests Hitchhike Into a Retail Store](https://mccloudservices.com/common-ways-pests-hitchhike-into-a-retail-store/): Pests can run, crawl, fly and hitch-hike their way in. Some paths are obvious like a door that is left... - [Restaurant Storage Practices to Prevent Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/restaurant-storage-practices-to-prevent-pests/): From dishware, cleaning supplies, dry goods and frozen goods, everything must go somewhere. If not stored properly, these items will... - [Pest Control Best Practices for Snack and Bakery Facilities](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-best-practices-for-snack-and-bakery-facilities/): Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery's article, "Pest control best practices for snack... - [Warehouse Beetle: Identification and Prevention Methods](https://mccloudservices.com/warehouse-beetle-identification-and-prevention/): The warehouse beetle is one species that will come in with shipments and enter from the exterior environment. Because it... - [Rats and the Pandemic](https://mccloudservices.com/rats-and-the-pandemic/): Some parts of the U. S. have seen a surge in rat activity, in part, due to the pandemic. Rats... - [Bugs Could Post a Major Threat to Your Favorite Whiskey](https://mccloudservices.com/bugs-could-post-a-major-threat-to-your-favorite-whiskey/): A recent study by McCloud Services explaining the importance of assessing and mitigating insect damage in warehouses. - [COVID-19 Spreads Rodents](https://mccloudservices.com/covid-19-spreads-rodents/): Juxtaposition of business booms and busts exacerbates seasonal issues. Rodent prevention and management amid the pandemic explained. - [Rodents 101: Identification and Prevention](https://mccloudservices.com/rodent-identification-and-prevention/): Rodents have increased in some areas due to the pandemic. As food sources deplete, rodents will seek other sources. Here... - [Pest Control Service Reports: 5 Keys Areas](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-service-reports-5-keys-areas/): Pest control service reports can help you make informed decisions when it comes to your facility’s pest management program. Here... - [Back to Service: Managing Pests During the Pandemic](https://mccloudservices.com/managing-pests-during-the-pandemic/): Just as businesses have continued to adapt, so have pests. Restaurateurs should continue taking the steps that help limit threats... - [Occasional Food Plant Pests Bring Unpredictable Problems](https://mccloudservices.com/occasional-food-plant-pests-bring-unpredictable-problems/): Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Processing's article, "Occasional Food Plant Pests Bring Unpredictable Problems. " - [Fall Pests: Migration Indoors and Prevention Tips](https://mccloudservices.com/fall-pest-prevention-tips/): With the cooler temperatures, pests begin to migrate indoors. Now is the time to pest proof to prevent these fall... - [Exclusion Strategies for Stored Product Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/exclusion-for-stored-product-pests/): Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog post on "Exclusion strategies for... - [Recover from a Poor Pest Control Plan](https://mccloudservices.com/recover-from-a-poor-pest-control-plan/): Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog post "Help clients recover from... - [Best Practices: Pest Control in Pet Food Facilities](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-in-pet-food-facilities/): Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Petfood Industry's article on "Pest control in pet food facilities:... - [Pest Bird Management Strategies](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-bird-management-strategies/): McCloud Services shares bird management strategies with Facility Management - [Stinging Insects: Identification and Prevention](https://mccloudservices.com/stinging-insects-prevention/): Stinging insects, such as bees and wasps, become pests as their natural food sources like nectar of flowers decline. Here... - [Filth Fly Prevention: Exclusion and Sanitation Tips](https://mccloudservices.com/filth-fly-prevention-exclusion-and-sanitation-tips/): Warm temperatures and a good food source are ideal conditions for filth flies to populate rapidly. Here are some ways... - [Supply Chain Pest Control](https://mccloudservices.com/supply-chain-pest-control/): Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article on "Supply Chain Pest Control. " - [Small Fly Development Sites](https://mccloudservices.com/small-fly-development-sites/): Small fly species that will reproduce in structures include small fruit flies, Phorid flies and Drain flies. Here is a... - [Pest Control: Technology for the Food Warehousing Industry](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-technology-food-industry/): Technology is being deployed for pest detection methods and has the power to make dramatic changes in the protection of... - [Preventing Bird Activity Around the Exterior of a Facility](https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-bird-activity/): Bird activity can be extremely harmful around the exterior of a facility. Follow these tips to prevent birds around the... - [How to Create a Winning Pest Management Program](https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-create-a-winning-pest-management-program/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to ProFood World's article "How to Create a Winning Integrated Pest Management Program" - [Spring Start-Ups: Predicting Pest Pressures](https://mccloudservices.com/spring-start-ups-predicting-pest-pressures/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog on "Spring start-ups: Predicting pest pressures" - [Conquering the Challenges of Flies](https://mccloudservices.com/conquering-the-challenges-of-flies/): Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article "Conquering the Challenges of Flies" - [Minimizing Pest Attractions Outdoors](https://mccloudservices.com/minimizing-pest-attractions-outdoors/): Making the exterior less desirable to pests can mean fewer pests numbers around the exterior and fewer pests trying to... - [Indianmeal Moth Infestations in Bird Seed](https://mccloudservices.com/indianmeal-moth-bird-seed/): The Indianmeal moth is a common of grain-based foods and animal feed. Here are some ways to identify and prevent... - [21st Century Pest Control](https://mccloudservices.com/21st-century-pest-control/): Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist, shares insights on innovations in the pest management industry in PET Food Processing - [2020 Pest Invasion Seminar - Two Events and Two Days](https://mccloudservices.com/2020-pest-invasion-seminar/): McCloud extends Annual Pest Invasion Seminar into two events and two days and will focus on pest management for the... - [Good Storage Practices to Prevent Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/storage-practices-to-prevent-pests/): Adhering to good storage practices can help prevent a variety of pests. Utilize these good storage practices to help in... - [How to Keep Pests Out of Your Manufacturing Facility](https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-keep-pests-out-of-your-manufacturing-facility/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Processing's article "How to Keep Pests Out of Your Manufacturing Facility" - [Anna Berry Wins Fifth Annual Walter Award](https://mccloudservices.com/anna-berry-wins-fifth-annual-walter-award/): McCloud Service's annual award recognizes employees who showcase exceptional character and demonstrate a priority on innovation, teamwork and leadership. - [Digital Rodent Monitoring: The Next Big Game-Changer?](https://mccloudservices.com/digital-rodent-monitoring-the-next-big-game-changer/): Pat Hottel, technical director, shares insights on rodent remote monitoring and its impact on the industry. - [Companies employ pest prevention to keep snack and bakery facilities safe and sanitary](https://mccloudservices.com/companies-employ-pest-prevention-to-keep-snack-and-bakery-facilities-safe-and-sanitary/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery Magazine and shares recommendations on how facilities... - [Preventing pests in food handling and storage facilities](https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-pests-in-food-handling-and-storage-facilities/): Dan Collins, regional technical director at McCloud, shares tips on what food manufacturers need to know to keep their facilities... - [Pest Prevention Tips - Sawtoothed Grain Beetle](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-prevention-tips-sawtoothed-grain-beetle/): The sawtoothed grain beetle can infest a variety of stored products from grain-based foods, to products containing chocolate & nuts. - [Integrated Pest Management for Food Processing Facilities](https://mccloudservices.com/integrated-pest-management-for-food-processing-facilities/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, shares insights on integrated pest food management with Refrigerated & Frozen Foods Magazine - [Good Pest Control Requires Good Records](https://mccloudservices.com/food-processing-good-pest-control/): Pests often leave trails. Droppings, sebum stains, dead insects and various other unpleasant markers serve as proof that they are... - [Complying with FSMA for Pet Food Manufacturing](https://mccloudservices.com/food-engineering-pest-food-mfg/): Dan Collins shares just how close modern pet food plants and human food plants actually are. - [No Pests Allowed](https://mccloudservices.com/no-pests-allowed/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Engineering's article "Food processors must be proactive in sanitary and hygienic... - [Food and Beverage Venues Present Unique Pest Challenges](https://mccloudservices.com/hotel-management-fb/): Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Hotel Management's article "F&B venues present unique pest challenges" - [Common Pests Found in Food Plants and What You Can Do to Prevent Them](https://mccloudservices.com/common-pest-found-in-food-plants/): Here are some of the common pests found in hotels and tips on how to protect your company's image and... - [2019 Pest Invasion Focuses on How to Develop a Successful Integrated Pest Management Program](https://mccloudservices.com/2019-pest-invasion-seminar-recap/): McCloud Services’ 2019 Pest Invasion Focuses on How to Develop a Successful Integrated Pest Management Program. Over 150 attendees gathered... - [Ways to Minimize Pests Around Dumpsters](https://mccloudservices.com/ways-to-minimize-pests-around-dumpsters/): Dumpsters can be both an attractant and breeding site for pests. Here are some tips for proper maintenance of dumpsters... - [Ben Jones Named 2019 Walter Award Recipient](https://mccloudservices.com/ben-jones-named-2019-walter-award-recipient/): McCloud Services, a leading pest management company headquartered in South Elgin, Ill. , is pleased to announce that Ben Jones,... - [Stephanie Dickson Named President of McCloud Services](https://mccloudservices.com/stephanie-dickson-named-president-of-mccloud-services/): Stephanie Dickson Named President of McCloud Services March 11, 2019 / Press Release McCloud Services, a leading pest management company... - [Pest Birds: The English House Sparrow](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-birds-english-house-sparrow-2/): The English house sparrow is one of the most common of the pest bird species. It’s small size and aggressive... - [5 Ways to Prevent Rodents](https://mccloudservices.com/5-ways-to-prevent-rodents/): Rodents easily exploit the resources that we can supply in the form of food, water and shelter. Here are 5... - [5 Common Pests Found in Hotels and What You Can Do to Prevent them](https://mccloudservices.com/common-pest-found-in-hotels/): Here are some of the common pests found in hotels and tips on how to protect your company's image and... - [Fall Into a Pest Proofing Routine](https://mccloudservices.com/fall-into-a-pest-proofing-routine/): Pests such as mice, rats, box elder bugs and spiders will look for shelter in warm homes as the weather... - [Minimize the Threat of Stinging Insects this Fall](https://mccloudservices.com/minimize-the-threat-stinging-insects-fall/): As summer slowly comes to an end, stinging insects such as paper wasps, bald-faced hornets and yellow jackets enter into... - [It's Cluster Fly Season](https://mccloudservices.com/its-cluster-fly-season/): Now is the time of year when adult cluster flies start to enter structures and the time for treating the... - [Restaurant Storage Practices to Minimize Pest Risk](https://mccloudservices.com/restaurant-storage-practices-minimize-pest-risk/): McCloud Services shares in-depth insight on ways restaurants can mitigate the risk of pests through storage and design. - [Spiders Begin Seeking New Homes for Fall](https://mccloudservices.com/spiders-begin-seeking-new-homes-for-fall/): As summer comes to an end, the spiders that have been enjoying the season outside will look indoors for the... - [Elements Required for a Successful FSMA Compliant Food Safety Program](https://mccloudservices.com/fsma-compliant-food-safety-program/): A comprehensive pest management program is a necessary component to an effective food safety program under the Food Safety Modernization... - [Fumigation: An Effective Pest Control Method](https://mccloudservices.com/fumigation-an-effective-pest-control-method/): Fumigation treatments remain an important element of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and will successfully mitigate pest pressures when... - [Common Pests Found in Restaurants](https://mccloudservices.com/common-pest-found-in-restaurants/): Here are some of the common pests found in restaurants along with some helpful tips on how to protect your... - [Earwigs: A Common Pest of Summer](https://mccloudservices.com/earwigs-a-common-pest-of-summer/): Earwigs feed on seedlings and can be considered a serious horticultural pest in greenhouses. They will also feed on soft... - [Filth Fly Prevention Tips for Retail Food Stores](https://mccloudservices.com/filth-fly-prevention-tips-for-retail-food-stores/): Filth flies can develop in a phenomenally short period of time. It can take as little as 6 days for... - [Protection Against Mosquitoes & Ticks](https://mccloudservices.com/summer-season-increased-protection-mosquitoes-ticks/): While these pests are certainly nuisances, they can also transmit harmful diseases like Zika virus, West Nile virus, Lyme disease,... - [Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite This Summer](https://mccloudservices.com/commons-hiding-spots-for-bed-bugs/): Summer travel means a higher chance of coming into contact with bed bugs who love the warmth and are great... - [Hazards Ahead: The Canada Goose](https://mccloudservices.com/hazards-ahead-canada-geese/): During breeding seasons, the Canada goose can attack people from the ground and the air when defending their young and... - [Spring Welcomes Stored Product Pests](https://mccloudservices.com/spring-welcomes-stored-product-insects/): A pheromone mating disruption program can play a key role in managing stored product pests. Spring is the ideal time... - [Pest-Proof Your Home this Spring](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-proof-your-home-this-spring/): McCloud Services encourages homeowners to take the proper precautions to protect their health, food and homes from these unwanted visitors. - [Ants Ready to Bug Homeowners this Spring](https://mccloudservices.com/ants-ready-to-bug-homeowners-this-spring/): As temperatures continue to rise, McCloud Services, warns that America’s number one nuisance pest will invade homes this spring in... - [Ants: A First Sight of Spring](https://mccloudservices.com/ants-a-first-sight-of-spring/): Retail stores may experience problems with ants being shipped in on product or inside wooden pallets. They may also come... - [McCloud Gives Back to National Charities](https://mccloudservices.com/2017_donations/): McCloud Services Honors Top-Performing Employees' Charities of Choice as Part of the Company's Philanthropic Priorities. - [Spring Cleaning Season Helps Keep Homes Pest-Free](https://mccloudservices.com/spring-cleaning-helps-keep-homes-pest-free/): The spring months mark the onset of harmful pests including stinging insects like yellowjackets, wasps and hornets, making pest prevention... - [Preventing Mice in Storage Rooms](https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-mice-in-storage-rooms/): The house mouse is pest of concern for grocery stores in the dock and storage areas. In addition to damaging... - [Pest Control in a Cost-Cutting Environment](https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-cost-cutting-environment/): Food Processing Online - By considering the impact on pest prevention in other decision-making, food professionals can pick up the... - [Cold Weather Drives Rodents Inside Vehicles](https://mccloudservices.com/cold-weather-drives-rodents-inside-vehicles/): Take caution and be on the lookout for a rodent problem under the car hood and take the necessary step... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2025-07-17 - Modified: 2025-07-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/mosquito-control/ Don’t let mosquitoes drive customers away. With mosquito control from McCloud Services, you’ll see results after just one visit. Our mosquito exterminators are ready to defend your business from these persistent pests, offering immediate results and long-term protection. Let us help you create a more comfortable and inviting environment for everyone who visits your facility. Our advanced mosquito treatments do more than repel mosquitoes; they provide comfort and peace of mind to you. Say goodbye to the buzzing pests that disrupt your business and annoy your staff and customers. Our commercial mosquito control in Nashville offers season-long protection with zero hassle. Mosquito Management for Businesses - Our Process McCloud Services’s commercial mosquito management program does more than eliminate active mosquitoes. It also targets mosquito breeding sites and habitats around your property, interrupting the life cycle, addressing the root causes of mosquito issues. Our mosquito control uses Integrated Pest Management techniques, giving you tailored protection for the entire season. To make sure you get dependable results, we follow a proven three-step process: Inspection: Thoroughly inspect all exterior parts of the facility for signs of mosquito activity, especially areas that might be conducive to mosquitoes, such as ponds, overgrown vegetation, and anywhere with standing water. Treatment: Treating areas conducive to mosquitoes and areas with active mosquitoes. Maintenance: We’ll regularly review the effectiveness of your service and make modifications when necessary. During peak mosquito season, our technicians will return at regular intervals for routine retreatment, so you’re protected all spring and summer. How... --- - Published: 2025-07-03 - Modified: 2025-07-03 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/drain-line-service/ Why is investing in drain cleaning and bioremediation a smart move for businesses? Daily use causes fats, oils, grease, and other waste to accumulate in drain lines. If left unaddressed, these blockages can lead to costly plumbing emergencies. This buildup creates odors, encourages bacteria, and attracts pests like cockroaches and drain flies. Businesses such as restaurants, commercial kitchens, food manufacturers, and gyms all depend on clean, functioning drains, yet regular maintenance is often neglected. Waiting for a backup means you’re already dealing with the consequences. Routine drain cleaning, paired with commercial pest control, can safeguard your operation from costly disruptions. To keep your drains clean and prevent pest problems, McCloud Services offers long-lasting commercial drain lines and bioremediation treatments. We use eco-friendly microbes that naturally digest organic buildup, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals while delivering effective, preventative care. Why Drain Line Cleaning and Bioremediation are the Best Solution for Commercial Drains? While plumbers can clear clogs using snaking or hydro-jetting, those methods only provide temporary relief. Our commercial drain bioremediation service takes a proactive approach to stop future blockages before they start. Unlike harsh chemicals or aggressive cleaning tools, bioremediation offers a safe, steady solution. Beneficial microbes work around the clock to digest fats, oils, and grease (FOG), preventing buildup before it starts. This continuous treatment keeps drains flowing, odors under control, and pests away, eliminating the uncertainty of your last drain maintenance. Benefits of Our Drain Line & Bioremediation Services Clean pipes are just the beginning. Our drain... --- - Published: 2025-06-19 - Modified: 2025-11-13 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/terms-of-use/ Introduction 1. 1 These terms and conditions shall govern your use of our website https://mccloudservices. com. 1. 2 By using our website, you accept these terms and conditions in full; accordingly, if you disagree with these terms and conditions or any part of these terms and conditions, you must not use our website. 1. 3 If you register with our website, submit any information to our website or use any of our website services, we ask you to expressly agree to these terms and conditions. 1. 4 You must be at least 16 years of age to use our website; and by using our website or agreeing to these terms and conditions, you warrant and represent to us that you are at least 16 years of age. 1. 5 Our website uses cookies; by using our website or agreeing to these terms and conditions, you consent to our use of cookies in accordance with the terms of our privacy policy. Credit 2. 1 This document was created using a template from SEQ Legal (http://www. seqlegal. com). Copyright notice 3. 1 Copyright (c) 2001 – 2025 by McCloud Services. 3. 2 Subject to the express provisions of these terms and conditions: (a) we, together with our licensors, own and control all the copyright and other intellectual property rights in our website and the material on our website; and (b) all the copyright and other intellectual property rights in our website and the material on our website are reserved. Licence to use... --- - Published: 2025-05-29 - Modified: 2025-05-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/schools-and-daycares/ Ant trails near the snack cart? Fruit flies buzzing around the nurse’s office? It doesn’t take much for a concerned parent to bring the issue up at a PTA meeting or a health inspection to turn suddenly stressful. That’s why proactive school and daycare pest control is essential. At McCloud Services, we focus on routine inspections, child-safe treatments, and meticulous documentation so pests never gain a foothold and your campus remains a healthy learning environment. Our education pest control program keeps every classroom, cafeteria, and locker room pest-free and compliant. Want peace of mind before your next inspection? Call McCloud Services today to schedule a complimentary school pest control assessment and see how we can make year-round pest protection easy. We provide education pest management services for these facilities and more: Daycares Elementary schools Middle schools High schools Colleges Universities Trade schools Why Do Educational Institutions Need Pest Control Services? From complaining parents to frustrated staff and compliance protocols, maintaining a pest-free facility is important for so many reasons. Pest infestations in educational institutions can cause issues ranging from: Classroom disruption Increased student absenteeism Complaints from parents and guardians Out-of-service dorms and temporary housing fees Added costs from replacing damaged food or student belongings Decreased staff morale Bad publicity Food contamination Whether it’s a daycare, a university, or anything in between, educational campuses face pest pressures unlike any other environment. Hundreds — sometimes thousands — of people stream through your doors daily, bringing crumbs, clutter, and the occasional stowaway insect.... --- - Published: 2025-05-16 - Modified: 2025-05-16 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/food-processing/how-to-prevent-ants/ The Definitive Guide to Ant Prevention for Food Plants Ants consistently rank as one of the most common pest complaints in commercial facilities, and they can be especially challenging for food processing facilities. Their ability to infiltrate through tiny openings and contaminate products makes them a persistent threat to food safety and regulatory compliance. That’s why knowing how to prevent ants in food processing facilities is critical for the long-term success of your business. Ant infestations can lead to: Regulatory violations and potential facility shutdowns Product contamination requiring costly recalls Failed third-party audits and certification issues Damage to brand reputation and consumer trust This guide provides practical, actionable strategies to keep your facility ant-free and compliant. Ant Prevention Strategies for Food Processing Facilities Ant problems in food processing facilities occur in numerous ways - from hitchhiking on incoming shipments to breaching the building perimeter in search of food or nesting sites. Effective prevention requires a multi-faceted approach targeting each potential vulnerability point. The following strategies break down into several categories, each addressing a different aspect of ant control. Preventing Ants During Receiving and Inspection Implement rigorous inspection procedures for all incoming materials Examine wooden pallets for carpenter ant galleries and frass (sawdust-like material) Check cardboard corners and folds where ants hide Inspect container exteriors for ant trails and quarantine suspect items Document findings to identify supplier issues Train receiving staff on ant identification basics and proper reporting procedures Protecting Your Exterior from Ants Maintain a 2-3’ vegetation-free zone around the... --- - Published: 2025-03-13 - Modified: 2025-03-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/retail/ Serving Nashville | Waterloo | Maryland Heights | Decatur | Kentucky Success in retail requires an inviting aura that draws people in. The only downside for clothing boutiques, big box stores, or even salons, is that open doors and frequent foot traffic leave you vulnerable to pest infestations. Our customized pest management services for retail businesses allow you to find that balance between welcoming guests and protecting against pests. From proactive prevention to rapid responses when needed, at McCloud Services, we make pest control for retail easy for you. Let us help create an exceptional customer experience with effective pest control solutions, reliable and fast services, and discreet and professional technicians who know how to get the job done. Contact us today for a free assessment and customized pest control service plan. Experienced Retail Industry Pest Service Pros We have extensive experience providing pest management services in retail businesses throughout Nashville. This is a small sample of the types of retail businesses we’ve worked with in the past, and we hope we can work with yours in the future: Apparel stores Barbershops / hair salons Craft and hobby stores Electronics retailers (cell phone stores, computer stores) Furniture and home decor shops Hardware and home improvement stores Pet supply stores Toy and game stores And many more! Why Choose McCloud Services for Retail Business Pest Management? At McCloud Services, we pride ourselves on in-depth industry expertise and fast response times. Here are just a few ways we keep your store pest-free... --- - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-02-13 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/pest-exclusion/rodent-and-wildlife-exclusion/ No business owner needs more to worry about – especially not rodents and wildlife infesting their building. Left unchecked, these creatures can do more than just damage your inventory – they can ruin your reputation and even damage the building itself. The worst part is that they can be almost impossible to get rid of without help from the professionals. Luckily, the McCloud Services team is in your corner. Our specialized rodent and wildlife exclusion services can help stop an infestation before it can even begin. For the best chance of avoiding a rodent or wildlife problem, count on our team! What Is Pest Exclusion? Pest exclusion, also known as pest proofing, is as simple as it is effective. It simply involves searching a structure for vulnerabilities and then sealing or covering those weak points to prevent pests from entering the building. This process uses physical barriers, like sealants and covers, rather than pesticides to protect these natural openings in your building. Used in conjunction with other pest control measures, this could prevent an infestation from starting in the first place. Our integrated pest management services are tailored for businesses trying to deter nuisance pests like rodents and other wildlife. We’ll help keep your inventory, customers, and employees safe from the hazards associated with these animals. How McCloud Services’s Exclusion Services Work Every business has its own unique needs, so we carefully customize our services to suit yours. To do that, we start with a comprehensive inspection of your structure... --- - Published: 2024-04-03 - Modified: 2024-05-28 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/lumnia-led-fly-trap/ Who wants to spend their time battling flies? Particularly in a business setting, they are far more than a mere annoyance. Flies pose health risks, and a minor issue with these pests can escalate into a major infestation surprisingly quickly. Consequently, a growing number of entrepreneurs are opting for the Lumnia LED Light Fly Trap as a preventative measure. Lumnia stands at the forefront of UV fly management technology, delivering an innovative and successful approach to detecting and eradicating airborne pests. For additional information on Lumnia Fly Lights and to discover how they can benefit your establishment, we invite you to contact us immediately. Features & Benefits Effective solution at a lower cost – These high-attraction LED lamps are optimized to catch more flies while also using less energy than before. Compared to our competitors, the Lumnia insect light trap can save you up to 79% of energy usage. ¹ Unbeatable attraction and capture rate – Lumnia is proven best in class, with up to 46% faster catch rate than equivalent LED insect light traps on the market. ² Environmentally friendly – Energy-saving modes adapt to the day-night cycle, reducing consumption and contributing to a lower environmental footprint. The low-energy LED lamps have a four-year life span and last 33% longer than competing LED traps on the market. ³ Encapsulation module - Better hygiene control by using an adhesive film inside an encapsulation cassette to trap, collect, and contain insects, eliminating the risk of secondary infestations from debris. No toxic... --- - Published: 2020-04-17 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/site-disinfecting-service/ Disinfecting Your Business for a Safer and Healthier Environment Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky The rapid spread of COVID-19 has left many businesses facing the unique challenge of protecting their employees and customers from potential exposure to the virus. And while you may go to great lengths to maintain the cleanliness of your facility, thorough disinfecting is required to be confident that your workplace is prepared for your customers and employees to get back to business. Trust the Right Partner To help create a healthier and safer environment, you must disinfect, and you must do it right. But what does “doing it right” look like? It looks like Disinfectix™ by McCloud Services. A site disinfecting service is carried out by our trained professionals with products that are labeled for use against various pathogens and meets EPA criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Features and Benefits It promotes a healthier environment with as little disruption to your business as possible. Follows the EPA-approved labeling for disinfectant products on List N, which have been shown to kill pathogenic organisms that may be present on non-porous surfaces. Our fine-mist application and high-touch wipe process requires only 10 minutes contact time and leaves no residue behind. Can provide you with peace of mind and help protect your business’s reputation. Is effective and approved for use in businesses such as daycare's, schools, food manufacturing and warehousing, restaurants and grocery stores. There's... --- - Published: 2018-12-11 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/community-outreach/ At McCloud Services we support charitable giving programs in all the communities we serve. This commitment is important to the health of the community and aligns with our obligation to be good corporate citizens. Pridefully, our team members have a say in helping select the donations, events and activities that we participate in based on which organizations mean the most to them. --- - Published: 2017-08-18 - Modified: 2017-11-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-invasion-seminar-2018/ Tuesday - January 23, 2018 Hamburger University at McDonald's Campus 2715 Jorie Boulevard | Oak Brook, Illinois 60523 McCloud Services Pest Invasion Seminar is an educational update for food industry, pest management, and environmental health professionals. The all-day seminar will feature valuable information on timely topics related to pests and other contamination concerns for the food supply chain of custody, including public health importance and FDA regulations, pest exclusion and sanitation, food borne illness and security. Event PricingMeet the SpeakersSeminar AgendaContinuing EducationExhibit & SponsorHotelJohn Spink, Ph. D. Food Fraud Initiative, MSU Food Fraud Prevention: Meeting Compliance Requirements Bobby Corrigan, Ph. D. Rodentologist, RMC Pest Management Consulting Rodent Prevention is the Goal in Food Safety Programs Anna Berry, BCE Entomologist / Training Manager, McCloud Services Using Pheromones to Monitor for Stored Product Pests James Miller, ACE PCO - Market Manager, Trece Using Pheromones to Monitor and Control Stored Product Pests Lance Reeve Risk Management Consultant for Food Safety & Defense, Nationwide Agribusiness Exploring Business Risk & Food Safety Mark VanderWerp, BCE Manager of Education and Training, Rose Pest Solutions Taxes... Death... and FLIES! Dr. Richard Pollack Senior Environmental Public Health Officer, Harvard University Food Facility Design: A Menu to Exclude Pests, or a Recipe for Disaster 7:00am - 8:00am Registration, Exhibits & Breakfast 8:00am - 9:00am Rodent Prevention is the Goal in Food Safety Programs Dr. Bobby Corrigan 9:00am - 9:30am Exhibits & Refreshment Break 9:30am - 10:30am Taxes... Death... and FLIES! Mark VanderWerp, BCE 10:30am - 11:00am Exhibits & Refreshment... --- - Published: 2017-02-25 - Modified: 2025-01-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/customer-reviews/ Leave a Review Rating Message Mike P. 1 week ago Ben at Terminix is WONDERFUL! Things have been better than ever since they took over our buildings pest control. read morehide Kim S. 1 week ago Geoffrey is ALWAYS super nice , friendly and knowledgeable! read morehide Dixie K. 1 week ago Very knowledgeableread morehide Catrina C. 1 week ago read morehide Karen S. 1 week ago Always very friendly and thorough. read morehide Jenny H. 1 week ago Very helpful and friendly, always does a great job and makes sure things are taken care of. read morehide Carrie J. 1 week ago read morehide William M. 2 weeks ago Great professional service. read morehide Leslie W. 2 weeks ago Ivan went above and beyond thoroughly spraying the apartment. He was communicative about his schedule and arrival time. He answered all my questions about preparation and expectations. I would definitely use him next time! read morehide Tracy C. 2 weeks ago Very friendly, helpful. We enjoy working with you. read morehide Lindsey M. 4 weeks ago read morehide BATCHELLER 4. 4 weeks ago read morehide Dozzy B. 1 month ago Geoffrey pays close attention to detail. He sprays every nook & cranny. He’s very friendly. read morehide Lisa T. 1 month ago He is super polite. read morehide Anna P. 1 month ago read morehide Heather S. 1 month ago read morehide Justine K. 1 month ago read morehide Melissa F. 1 month ago read morehide MrBazinga27 1 month ago... --- - Published: 2016-03-22 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/food-safety-training/ McCloud Services offers The National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe™ Food Safety Program for Managers. Your employees will learn about foodborne illnesses and the food safety practices that will help protect your business and reputation. The ServSafe® program provides food safety training, exams and educational materials to foodservice managers. Students can earn the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-Conference for Food Protection (CFP). The program blends the latest FDA Food Code, food safety research and years of food sanitation training experience. Managers learn to implement essential food safety practices and create a culture of food safety. All content and materials are based on actual job tasks identified by foodservice industry experts. --- - Published: 2016-03-03 - Modified: 2016-03-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/request-sent/ Thank you for contacting McCloud Services. We have received your request and a confirmation email will be sent to you shortly. --- - Published: 2016-03-02 - Modified: 2025-10-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/employee-resources/ PESTI Login McCloud Email Access McCloud University UniFirst Uniforms --- - Published: 2016-02-25 - Modified: 2022-02-04 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/complete-service-portfolio/ RodentsFliesBed BugsStored Product PestsBirdsFumigationFumigation AlternativesOther IPM ServicesQualityMcCloud Services uses an integrated approach to rodent management. Our service specialists inspect the interior and exterior of the facility for potential points of rodent entry, harborage, or conditions that could draw rodents into or near the facility. We work with our clients to identify and correct structural and sanitation issues which could result in rodent populations in the facility. To monitor and protect the facility, there are several tools McCloud Services employs, based on the needs of our client and rodent pressure. Interior Rodent Management & Control: Multi-Catch traps are in place to monitor for potential rodent activity on either side of all doors and along perimeter walls. Interior inspections will take place with potential conducive conditions documented and recommendations reported. Devices will be inspected, cleaned and findings documented. Interior Rodent and Device Inspection: Clean, service, and maintain interior rodent control devices; remove pest evidence; and pest proof small holes. Exterior Rodent Management & Control: Exterior rodent stations are in place along perimeter of facility to monitor for exterior rodent activity. Exterior inspections will take place with potential conducive conditions documented and recommendations reported. Devices will be inspected, cleaned and findings documented. Exterior Rodent and Device Inspection: Clean, service, and maintain exterior rodent stations; replace monitoring blocks or rodenticide as necessary; and pest proof small entry points. Dropping Removal: Rodent droppings are removed via vacuum. Pest Exclusion/Proofing: Inspection for pest entry points and installation of pest exclusion materials such as door sweeps and... --- - Published: 2016-02-05 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/career-path/ We are proud that our employees come from diverse work backgrounds. Whether they have previous experience in pest management or not, they bring distinct skills and strengths to their new team. At McCloud Services, we understand that not everyone joins the company with the same knowledge or experience. Start your career with us in any of the following roles. ADMINISTRATION Our administration team is comprised of professionals in Accounting, Information Technology, Marketing and Human Resources. These team members ensure all of their functional responsibilities are top notch and keep our back-office running smoothly. We take pride in the expertise and support they provide and encourage these team members to continue their growth and development so they can meet their personal and professional aspirations. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT The Business Development team at McCloud focuses on the growth of the company by prospecting new relationships. We employ critical thinkers looking for an opportunity to exercise independent judgment and who enjoy the responsibility and rewards for business growth. Our team consists of recent college graduates as well as many tenured sales professionals. Business Development Representatives have a base compensation plus commission pay structure and also enjoy generous incentive opportunities. We provide ongoing training and development opportunities for our Business Development Representatives. Essential Functions of Business Development Representatives Be part of a creative and driven business development team that has the energy to achieve results Generate high-value leads by collecting business intelligence and identifying key decision makers Onboard new customers through consultative selling, relationship building,... --- - Published: 2016-02-05 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/our-history/ McCloud Services was founded in 1904 by William Bailey McCloud as W. B. McCloud & Company, located in Chicago, Illinois. William began as a manufacturer and distributor of sheep and cattle dips for use in the stockyards. He gradually expanded into the sale of rodenticides and insecticides. In August 1904, he began offering pest control services under the name Rat Engineers and Pest Control Service. Throughout its history, McCloud Services has aggressively expanded through acquisition and market diversification, and by offering new and cutting-edge pest management services. This tradition began in the 1930s, when W. B. McCloud & Company added branch offices in central Illinois, central Indiana and eastern Iowa. In 1943, McCloud Services opened a branch office in St. Louis, Missouri, and in 1951 another branch office opened in Kansas City. In 1954, a Decatur, Illinois branch was added, followed by one more Illinois branch in Pekin. In 1976, an Iowa office was added, followed by an Indiana location in 1979. Service centers were added in Tennessee and Kentucky in 1991. Today, McCloud Services serves customers in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee, Wisconsin and Ohio. A Family Business Focused on Values Our business has always strived to conduct itself as a family business. We treat our people with the care and respect due a family member, or member of a family of employees. We are fortunate to have a talented team consisting of many very long term, or, core individuals who make up the backbone of... --- - Published: 2016-02-01 - Modified: 2025-06-11 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/stored-product-pest-protection/ Stored product pests can cause serious problems if you manage a business that stores, processes, or sells grain and dry goods. These pests can destroy inventory, damage equipment, contaminate products, lead to failed inspections or facility shutdowns, and even harm your company’s reputation and bottom line. At McCloud Services, we take a proactive stance on stored product pest control in Nashville. Our experienced team will thoroughly inspect your facility and develop a plan tailored to your unique layout, pest pressures, compliance obligations, and operational patterns. Our 4-Step Stored Product Pest Management Process We provide stored product pest control for a wide range of businesses, including flour mills, food processing facilities, and distribution centers. Whether you're focused on prevention or facing an active infestation, our certified technicians work to safeguard your products, reputation, and profits. We follow a proven four-step process to deliver effective stored product pest management. This approach supports regulatory compliance and helps your facility operate without disruption: Identification: We begin by determining which pest species are present in your facility using thorough inspections and targeted monitoring methods. Prevention: Our team implements proactive pest control measures designed to stop infestations before they start, protecting both your products and operations. Monitoring: Ongoing observation of pest activity helps us pinpoint high-risk zones and track trends in pest populations for smarter response strategies. Suppression: When prevention isn't enough, we rely on data from monitoring efforts to develop and apply customized treatments that directly address your facility’s specific challenges. Cutting-Edge Treatment and Prevention... --- - Published: 2016-01-26 - Modified: 2025-11-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/office-locations/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky CUSTOMER SERVICE Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Tel: 800-332-7805 | Email: CustomerService@mccloudservices. com Illinois Chicago Service Center 647 Academy Drive. Northbrook, Illinois 60062 Tel: (800) 421-6437 Central Illinois Service Center 4310 W. Main Street. Decatur, IL 62522 Tel: (800) 269-3223 Mokena Service Center 8910 W 192nd St suite h, Mokena, IL 60448 Tel: (800) 332-7805 Indiana Indiana Service Center 5701 Fortune Cir S Suite K Indianapolis, IN 46241 Tel: (800) 352-2315 Evansville Service Center 2301 S Green River Road Evansville, IN 47715 Tel: (800) 352-2315 Iowa Iowa Service Center 1410 Industrial Ave, Suite #200 Hiawatha, IA 52233 Tel: (800) 778-1956 Kansas Kansas City Service Center Tel: (800) 231-8660 Overland Park Service Center 9214 Bond St Overland Park, KS 66214 Tel: (800) 332-7805 Kentucky Kentucky Service Center 22 Reilly Road, Suite 700, Frankfurt, KY 40601 Tel: (800) 525-2671 Missouri St. Louis Service Center 1780 Gillsinn Lane Fenton, MO 63026 Tel: (800) 733-5735 Kansas City Service Center Tel: (800) 231-8660 Tennessee Nashville Service Center 803 Louisville Highway, Goodletteville, TN 37072 Tel: (800) 525-2671 --- - Published: 2016-01-05 - Modified: 2016-07-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/organic-compliant-program/ McCloud Services’ organic pest management programs are natural extensions of our Integrated Pest Management and environmental philosophies. For those seeking certification under the USDA’s National Organic Program, our organic pest management activities are consistent with the standards established in Section 205. 271 of the National Organic Program (NOP). A specific, four-step protocol is used as a guide to the overall organic pest management process. This protocol is designed in terms of priority and some steps may occur concurrently while other steps may not occur at all. In some cases, it may be unnecessary to take action beyond the first all-important step – pest prevention. All materials used will be submitted in a written plan prior to use. Special programs can be designed for facilities not falling under USDA National Organic Program protocols. Organic Pest Management Protocol Pest Prevention - Exclusion and sanitations controls Mechanical or Physical Pest Management Application of Approved Materials Application of Materials Not on the National Organic List - Exception to Four-Step Protocol Customized programs for restaurants and retail food stores are also available when the USDA NOP standards are not required. Download Now: Organic Pest Management Protocol --- - Published: 2016-01-05 - Modified: 2016-07-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/leed-compliant-programs/ Our pest management program for LEED certified facilities relies on prevention as the primary means of dealing with pests. Non-chemical control tools fit well with pest prevention strategies and lend themselves perfectly to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified facilities. All quality standards and service guidelines in our program apply to LEED certified facilities. McCloud Services’ service approach supports the following LEED credit categories: Our green protection plan supports the following LEED credit categories: Indoor Environmental Quality. EQ Credit 3. 9: Green cleaning: indoor pest management. Sustainable Sites. SS Credit 3: Integrated Pest Management, erosion control and landscape management plan (This category refers to outdoor integrated pest management that must be combined with indoor pest management programs. Since our structural pest services protect the immediate exterior of the building, this program has been designed to comply with SS Credit 3). LEED Pest Management Program Process Download the Complete Process Details Here --- - Published: 2016-01-05 - Modified: 2018-06-21 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/electronic-data-collection/ Communication and Documentation of Services Communication and documentation are critical components of the partnership we have with our clients. Our goal is to gather consistent, complete, and valued information to form data-driven action plans. The communication and documentation exchange is an on-going process for which we have developed specific tools that help keep things simple and efficient. With mobile device and barcode scanning technology, we have the ability to provide a wide range of options for communication, documentation and reporting by having the service data available in electronic format with the McCloud Electronic Logbook and Web Portal. Electronic Logbook McCloud Services will provide communication, documentation and interactive report data with our secure electronic logbook. The electronic logbook provides immediate access to reports and data trends. Client users can easily evaluate results of the pest management program and react quickly to make measurable adjustments. Our electronic logbook is designed to be in compliance with GFSI and all third-party auditing agencies. The E-Logbook is an extension of our secure web portal which includes the following features: View Service Schedule Request or Reschedule your Service Update Payment Information Pay Invoices Submit requests to our Customer Service team --- - Published: 2016-01-05 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/benefits/ At McCloud Services, we are committed to offering our team members a wide range of benefit options. Our team member’s health and well-being are most important to the success of their activity both on the job, and in their personal lives. We are committed to helping our team members build a great future. Put your skills and energy to work at McCloud and enjoy these benefits to make your heath, financial security and work/life balance the best it can be! HEALTH & WELLNESS Multiple medical plan choices including Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans and a Consumer-Directed Health Plan (CDHP) that includes a tax-advantaged Health Savings Account (HAS) option. Life Management Program (Employee Assistance Program) that’s designed to help with the stress and challenges of daily life through professional consultation. Two dental plan options with different in- and out-of-network coverage levels. A vision program to help keep your costs low for exams and eyewear. Comprehensive prescription drug coverage through network providers. GoodRx prescription drug discount program available to all teammates, even those not enrolled in a Terminix/McCloud medical plan. Telemedicine through either Tel-A-Doc or Doctors On Demand is available to all teammates, including those that are not enrolled in a Terminix/McCloud medical plan though there is a fee associated with this service Short- and long-term disability coverage to protect you and your family from loss of income due to illness or injury. Robust life insurance coverage, including basic life at no cost to you, and the option to purchase additional life... --- - Published: 2015-12-09 - Modified: 2025-11-05 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky Pest Management for the Modern World: Protecting Health, Food, Property and the Environment McCloud Services was founded in 1904 in the Chicago stockyards, and has since become a leader in commercial pest management solutions, serving the food supply chain of custody, health care, hospitality, property management, and retail industries. With a foundation of over 100 years of industry and market experience, we have built value propositions that help solve problems that impact our customer’s bottom line. We provide the right people with the right tools to serve our customers and we focus on performance and accountability. We strive to provide a great place to work and an environment that inspires success. McCloud Services provides high quality pest management services and customer care with programs that are designed to target immediate and potential pest concerns. Protecting more than half of the largest food related brands in the U. S. , we remain at the forefront of our industry by embracing the latest technology and innovations to protect our client’s health and safety. McCloud Services Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee and Ohio. A Founding Member in Rentokil-Terminix Rentokil-Terminix is an alliance of regional pest management companies that are united as a single entity for the purpose of providing quality pest solutions to businesses with locations throughout North America. Through our affiliation with Rentokil-Terminix, McCloud Services is able to offer commercial clients the benefit of a consistent... --- - Published: 2015-12-08 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/collapse-trial/ Carpenter Ants QUICK STATS Color: Usually red, black or a combination Legs: 6 Shape: Segmented; oval Size: ¼ – ¾ inch long Antennae: Yes Region: Found throughout the U. S. ; most common in the North Carpenter ants get their name because they excavate wood in order to build their nests. Their excavation results in smooth tunnels inside the wood. These are large ants ranging in size from one-quarter inch for a worker ant to up to three-quarters inch for a queen. Habits Carpenter ants typically attack wood that is or has been wet. They usually come into structures through cracks around doors and windows, holes in a structure meant for wires, or through wet, damaged wood. They will also crawl along overhead wires, shrubs or tree limbs that touch the building far above the ground. Carpenter ants build their nests in various wood sources including tree stumps, fence posts, firewood or landscaping. A colony can have multiple nests inside structures as well as outdoors. Carpenter ants need a constant water source to survive. Habitat Carpenter ants build their nests outdoors in various wood sources, including tree stumps, firewood or landscaping. They need a constant water source to survive. Carpenter ants will enter the house through wet, damaged wood. Threats Carpenter ants damage wood through their nest building. Over time, an infestation can cause serious structural damage to a property. Prevention Carpenter ants require a water source. To prevent black carpenter ants in the house, eliminate sources of moisture or... --- - Published: 2015-11-13 - Modified: 2025-07-03 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/fly-management/ Flies are vectors for disease traveling from sewage to the dinner plate. McCloud Services’ No Fly Zone™ program protects your health and safety through inspection and control techniques for small fly and large fly breeding areas. A growing number of entrepreneurs are opting for the Lumnia LED Light Fly Trap as a preventative measure. Large Filth Fly ProgramSmall Fly ProgramOverwintering FliesLarge Filth Fly Control for House Flies and Bottle Flies Filth flies lay eggs in organic debris. They can breed year round, even in colder climates in heated buildings in which conditions conducive to breeding exist. Some species of filth flies can complete their life cycle in as little as seven days. Elimination of the breeding site and proper sanitation is key to the success of a fly management program. Potential attractions for Filth flies are garbage dumpsters, greasy surfaces in food prep areas, and spillage outside plants and mills. No Fly Zone™ for Filth Fly Elimination We will inspect for signs of filth fly breeding sites, resting sites, and areas where flies are likely to enter the facility. The inspection and analysis will include both interior and exterior management. A detailed plan will be developed outlining what procedures will be implemented on the exterior and interior of the structure. Exclusion will be a key component for filth fly control. Both non-chemical and chemical strategies will be utilized. We will treat with Maxforce® Fly Spot Bait in critical areas such as around dumpsters, compactors and loading docks. Residual insecticide treatments... --- - Published: 2015-11-13 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/bird-management/ McCloud Services encounters many unfortunate situations in which pest birds have caused structural damage to a facility, destroyed a property, contaminated products, and posed health risks to employees, customers, and the community at large. We design and implement our bird management and exclusion services to resolve these critical issues created by pest birds, including pigeons, seagulls, and starlings. We can also provide tips to make your facility less bird-friendly by eliminating the conditions that make it attractive to pest birds in the first place. Effective Bird Management & Exclusion Services Our bird management services resolve pest bird problems in all environments. We use a multi-faceted plan implemented in stages that is flexible in terms of bird population behavior and time of year. Sometimes, simply altering the environmental conditions of the property can make your business less pest-bird friendly. However, in more complex situations, managing pest birds must be viewed as a puzzle that impacts the large scope of the facility. Bird Management Solutions ExclusionVisual & Sound DeterrentsPhysical RemovalSmell & Taste DeterrentsOvo-Control® PBird exclusion is a combination of netting and ledge modification products to prevent birds from nesting or landing on a structure. Netting Bird netting is one of the most versatile solutions for bird control, providing a discreet yet effective barrier against all types of nuisance birds without inflicting harm on the birds themselves. It can be used to exclude birds from overhangs, HVAC units, ledges, towers, and other areas. It is one of the most durable and long-term control... --- - Published: 2015-11-13 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/fumigation/ McCloud Services’ fumigation programs are uniquely designed to meet today’s challenges. They protect human health, provide food safety, and brand protection while eliminating pest pressures. We design and perform our fumigation's to limit your exposure to risk and liability. Safety is our number-one priority. With a long history of providing industry leading fumigation work, our market leading reputation is leveraged on consistent, reliable and solutions based service. Fumigation Services Offered Structural Spot Grain Bin Shipping Container Semi-Trailer (domestic) Chamber Vertical Storage Rail Car Barge Tarp Fumigation Management PlanFumigation ProcessFumigantsFumigation AlternativesFumigation Management Plan All of our fumigations include a Fumigation Management Plans (FMP’s), as required. This plan is an organized, written description of the required work to ensure a safe, legal and effective fumigation. A Fumigation Management Plan includes the following: Preliminary Planning and Preparation Identification of target pests Selection of fumigant Facility specifications which can impact the job Sealing and aeration strategy Results from the pre-fumigation survey Identify materials requiring removal per label instructions Efficacy monitoring and final clearing data Safety controls including industrial hygiene monitoring Fumigation Process Preparation Preparation of the treatment site is done at a time to not interfere with normal business operations. A preparation strategy is developed during our assessment of the fumigation work to ensure optimal safety, positive results, with strict adherence to both state and federal requirements. Remaining preparations are finalized after the plant has formally ceased all normal business activities. We perform all building preparations, including the development of a site-specific safety plan... --- - Published: 2015-11-13 - Modified: 2025-02-05 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/pest-exclusion/ Many of the urban pests that enter a structure originate from the exterior environment. This includes pests like commensal rodents, filth flies and several stored product pests. To prevent pests from entering, pest proofing and exclusion efforts are essential. In addition, recent food safety regulations like the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and current Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) emphasize pest prevention in their rules. Pest proofing and exclusion efforts can include a variety of methods to help prevent entry and reduce attractiveness of the structure to pests. Sealing doors, screening windows and floor drain screens or one way valves are examples of exclusionary methods aimed at preventing entry. Bird proofing ledges, reducing attractive vegetation and maintaining vegetation free barriers around foundations would be examples of reducing a building’s attraction to pests. Both go hand in hand in pest prevention. One of the best ways to prevent pest activity is to incorporate exclusion in your pest management program. Pest exclusion not only prevents pests from entering a building but can also prevent interior pest movement. In addition to restricting movement, exclusion can reduce the areas where pests can harbor and food sources can accumulate. It provides long term control and reduces the need for pesticides. Some accreditation programs like LEED and the National Organic Program, will specify non-chemical efforts as the first step in pest remediation. Exclusion can satisfy the need for non-chemical strategies. The smaller the pest, the greater the degree of sealing or pest exclusion required. Pests have an... --- - Published: 2015-11-13 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/bed-bug-management/ We realize how damaging a single bed bug sighting can be, which is why we offer highly effective bed bug treatment programs to help companies combat bed bug infestations safely and efficiently. What Are Bed Bugs? Thermal RemediationConventional TreatmentFumigationEducational ServicesWhat Are Bed Bugs? Bed bugs are small, reddish brown, flat-bodied insects about 3/16” long or smaller. These tiny pests are often found around mattresses, box springs and nightstands, as well as behind headboards and wall voids. Bed bugs seek refuge in the cracks and crevices of furniture, under floorboards and even behind light switches and pictures on the walls. Bed bugs primarily feed on the blood of humans, small animals or birds, and may live for months without feeding. Because of their tendency to “hitchhike,” bed bugs are frequently introduced into a home or business through furniture, luggage or other items that have been in infested areas. In multi-unit dwellings they may move from one unit to another through walls or halls. Thermal Remediation Bed Bug Treatment Using thermal remediation technology, our trained service specialists control bed bug infestations safely and quickly. Heat kills all stages of bed bugs, including: eggs, young and adults. A thermal remediation treatment (heat treatment) often involves a two-step process: A thermal remediation treatment often involves a two-step process: A targeted heat treatment during which the entire treatment area is heated to 120° F or higher. The hot air is circulated using fans, and temperatures are monitored throughout the treatment area(s). An application of noninvasive... --- - Published: 2015-11-12 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/all-other/ The Most Extensive Coverage for your Business Pests in commercial environments can be more than a nuisance; they can be hazardous to your employees’ and customers’ health, resulting in costly damage. Our integrated pest management programs are focused on areas of risk, providing cost-effective, efficient and environmentally sound pest management. Programs Designed for Your Business Prevent pest related problems that could be damaging to your business and brand Proactive elimination of pests Proper use of pesticides Cost effective programs Pest Management that Protects Your Business, Reputation and Brand Address immediate concerns while focusing on added prevention strategies for long-term pest management. Services are scheduled at a time that works for your business Programs based on targeting specific pest risks associated with each time of year Support available 24/7/365 with a guaranteed response time --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2022-11-03 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/residential-pest-control/home-protection-plan/ Protect Your Home from Unwanted Guests Household pests can be more than a nuisance; they can be a threat to your health and property. Supported by over 100 years, McCloud's team of Service Specialists are experts trained to achieve control of the toughest pest management challenges. McCloud's technical training combines classroom and on-the-job experience. McCloud’s Service Specialists have a solid knowledge of pests, their origin, and proper pest management tactics. Protection starts with a free evaluation. Contact McCloud Services at 1-800-332-7805 or Request a Quote online. Based on your answers to a few quick questions, we will give you a quote for a Residential Pest Control service that best fits your needs. Service Solutions Designed to Meet Your Needs One Time Corrective Service - As Needed Our one-time corrective service focuses on solving your specific insect or rodent issue on an as-needed basis. The problem should be resolved in a single service but may include one or more follow up services depending on the insect and environment. Home Protection Plan - Maximum Protection We know that the safety of your family and the protection of your home are top priorities. With regularly scheduled inspections, monitoring and treatment practices, you can rest easy knowing your home is protected by professional pest management experts. McCloud's Home Protection Plan is designed to protect your home and family all year long, with 3 annual visits during peak pest seasons. Initial inspection and service of the interior and exterior of the home to identify and... --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/talent-training/ We are proud that our employees come from diverse work backgrounds. Whether they have previous experience in pest management or not, they bring distinct skills and strengths to their new team. At McCloud Services, we understand that not everyone joins the company with the same knowledge or experience. TalentPest Management TrainingDay in the LifeBusiness Development The Business Development team at McCloud focuses on the growth of the company by prospecting new relationships. We employ critical thinkers looking for an opportunity to exercise independent judgment and who enjoy the responsibility and rewards for business growth. Our team consists of recent college graduates as well as many tenured sales professionals. Business Development Representatives have a base compensation plus commission pay structure and also enjoy generous incentive opportunities. We provide ongoing training and development opportunities for our Business Development Representatives. Essential Functions of Business Development Representatives Create strong personal selling plans to meet company growth initiatives Identify potential customers and make contact with prospects Develop command of assigned sales territory and demonstrate high quality territory management Conduct inspections and prepare sales proposal; ensure contracts are clear, concise and pricing is consistent with company guidelines Partner with team members to take advantage of sales opportunities Understand and comply with the required tracking of sales activity, reporting and territory analysis Account Management The primary focus of the Account Manager role is to build positive, professional relationships throughout all levels of the food supply chain of custody, and to manage client expectations in order to retain... --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2017-10-11 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/open-jobs/ Join McCloud’s Elite Team of Pest Management Professionals Welcome! We are always looking for top talent! If you do not see a job opening that interests you at this time, please consider applying for future consideration by submitting your resume below. We’d love to review your resume and take you into consideration for future open positions. Apply Now --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/why-mccloud/ We strive to provide a great place to work and create an environment that inspires and cultivates success OUR MISSION We protect our customer’s health, property, food and environment while providing the highest level of safety for our employees and the general public. We adhere to our core values in our relationships with our customers and each other. OUR VISION To be recognized by our customers as the premier pest management company in each market we operate. OUR CORE VALUES HONESTY We are committed to honesty in all that we do INTEGRITY We base our employee and customer relationships on integrity and strengthen them through truth and fairness RESPECT We respect and value each individual for his or her unique contributions to the success of our company SAFETY We will never compromise the safety of our people or our clients QUALITY We provide excellent service, succeed through continuous improvement and take personal ownership for the quality of our work We Have Fun at McCloud --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/termite-management/ Subterranean termites generally develop and infest from colonies in soil. Most commonly they enter a building through structural wood or foundation walls adjacent to the soil. In cases of structures built partly or completely on slabs, infestation occurs through expansion joints, cracks and utility and sewer pipe openings. Inspection Termite inspections are one way in which infestations can be detected. Without regular inspections, a termite infestation can remain undetected for years. Some key signs that are used to indicate termite infestations include: Swarming of adult termites Presence of mud tubes Identification of termite feeding activity Control Once termite activity is confirmed it is prudent to take action to eliminate the concern. There are two primary approaches to controlling termite activity and your Service Specialist should be able to assist you in making the best decision for your situation. These two methods include a traditional chemical barrier type approach and a termite bait program. Each has distinct advantages over the other. One caveat when it comes to termites is that it is not recommended that this be a DIY approach. Termites can be especially difficult to treat and oftentimes require specialized equipment to appropriately treat structures. This equipment and the experience needed is frequently found only through the services of a professional pest control specialist. Annual Contracts/Warranty Although the materials applied to control termites are effective there are many factors which may impact the ability of treatments to provide control over the long term. Changes to landscaping, soil movement, room additions,... --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2022-11-03 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/residential-pest-control/ Protect Your Home from Unwanted Guests Household pests can be more than a nuisance; they can be a threat to your health and property. Supported by over 100 years, McCloud's team of Service Specialists are experts trained to achieve control of the toughest pest management challenges. McCloud's technical training combines classroom and on-the-job experience. McCloud’s Service Specialists have a solid knowledge of pests, their origin, and proper pest management tactics. Protection starts with a free evaluation. Contact McCloud Services at 1-800-332-7805 or Request a Quote online. Based on your answers to a few quick questions, we will give you a quote for a Residential Pest Control service that best fits your needs. Service Solutions Designed to Meet Your Needs One Time Corrective Service - As Needed Our one-time corrective service focuses on solving your specific insect or rodent issue on an as-needed basis. The problem should be resolved in a single service but may include one or more follow up services depending on the insect and environment. Home Protection Plan - Maximum Protection We know that the safety of your family and the protection of your home are top priorities. With regularly scheduled inspections, monitoring and treatment practices, you can rest easy knowing your home is protected by professional pest management experts. McCloud's Home Protection Plan is designed to protect your home and family all year long, with 3 annual visits during peak pest seasons. Initial inspection and service of the interior and exterior of the home to identify and... --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2025-05-28 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/manufacturing/ Pest control for manufacturing and logistics facilities requires a high degree of professionalism, experience, and knowledge. Our pest management techniques are effective and economical and emphasize product safety, worker safety, and contamination prevention. We partner with our clients in coordinating both non-chemical and chemical strategies in pest prevention and control for effective, long-term results. At McCloud Services, we pride ourselves on delivering pest management services tailored specifically for the manufacturing and logistics sector. Our team of seasoned professionals understands the unique challenges the industry faces. CASE STUDY: MANUFACTURING PLANT Download Now How Our Pest Control for Manufacturing and Logistics Protects Your Business Who has time for a pest infestation? Your business certainly doesn’t. Pest infestations don’t just cause annoyance and irritation – they can have a wide range of long-term negative effects. Our manufacturing and logistics pest management services protect you from these consequences: Failed audits and potential contract terminations Compromised product quality and integrity Risk of recalls and plant shutdowns Damage to your hard-earned reputation Potential litigation and negative publicity Regulatory fines and penalties Which Areas in a Manufacturing or Logistics Facility Are Most Vulnerable to Pests? Our extensive experience has allowed us to identify common access points prone to infestations. These include: Loading docks Utility penetrations Storage areas and aisles Break rooms and locker areas Incoming shipments Employee belongings Office spaces Waste management areas Entry and exit points To learn more about these high-risk areas, download our helpful PDF below. Download Now What Our Programs Include Protection from... --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/hospitality/ Helping You Provide the Ultimate Guest Experience In a sensitive environment such as yours, proper management of pests is critical in creating a positive and safe experience for guests. Our pest management program for the hospitality industry is designed to eliminate concerns associated with pests that threaten to damage your company’s reputation and brand. BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY Download Now PERFORMING BED BUG INSPECTIONS IN HOTELS Download Now COMMON WAYS PESTS GAIN ACCESS TO HOTELS Download Now HOSPITALITY & LODGING SITE RISK MAP Download Now Programs Designed for Your Business Prevent guest room vacancy and revenue loss Reduce consumer complaints Safeguard your reputation Protection from product contamination and food safety concerns Pest Management to Protect Your Guests, Reputation and Brand An integrated approach addressing immediate concerns while focusing on added prevention strategies for long-term pest management. Flexibility to accommodate specific requirements of the hospitality industry Electronic documentation accessible on a secure web portal with real time reporting capabilities. Support available 24/7/365 with a guaranteed response time. LEED Certified Pest Management Programs --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2025-06-11 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/property-management/ When Your Business is Protecting Property, Let McCloud Protect You Pest control shouldn’t add to the stress of property management. You need solutions that are fast, reliable, and tailored to the unique challenges of your buildings. At McCloud Services, we specialize in commercial pest control designed specifically for property managers. Our experts focus on prevention first, helping you avoid infestations before they begin. Apartments, retail spaces, and offices all demand a high standard of cleanliness and safety. Without the support of a professional pest control provider, property managers risk financial loss, structural damage, and compliance issues. Pest Control Solutions for Every Property Type McCloud Services knows how crucial it is to keep rental properties pest-free. Our fast, reliable pest control solutions help protect your investment and keep tenants happy. We tailor our services to fit many types of properties, including: Retail centers Office buildings Malls HOAs Apartments
 Condos
 Other multi-family housing types
 Why Choose McCloud Services for Property Management Pest Control Services? There are plenty of pest control companies out there, but not all understand the unique challenges of property management. McCloud Services does. We collaborate directly with property managers to deliver effective, tailored solutions. Here’s why we’re a trusted choice in Nashville: Responsive Service: When pests appear, fast action is key. We respond quickly and coordinate with you to ensure access at convenient times, resolving pest problems thoroughly and without delay. Experienced Technicians: Our skilled team understands the specific challenges of pest control in property management. We deliver effective... --- - Published: 2015-11-09 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/pharmaceuticals/ Pests are not acceptable inside a pharmaceutical plant. The management of pests in these sensitive environments requires a high degree of professionalism, expertise and facility specific knowledge. Our pest management techniques are effective and emphasize product safety, worker safety and contamination prevention. We partner with our clients in coordinating both non-chemical and chemical strategies in pest prevention for long-term, effective control programs. CASE STUDY: AMERICAN COCKROACHES IN A PHARMACEUTICAL LAB Download Now Programs Designed for Your Pharmaceutical Facility Custom designed programs based on initial and continuing site analysis to pinpoint needs and reduce waste Protect critical environments and processes. Support for sustainability initiatives with LEED and Organic programs Pest Management for the Protection of Your Brand and Reputation Detailed and regulatory-compliant documentation of service programming, materials used methods of application, and pest activity trends Utilization of a tactical approach combined with quality initiatives and technology to analyze data quickly, resulting in fast corrective actions Support available 24/7/365 with a guaranteed response time --- - Published: 2015-11-03 - Modified: 2025-11-26 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Property Management Hospitality Manufacturing Retail Schools & Daycares --- - Published: 2015-11-03 - Modified: 2025-10-09 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/other-industries/healthcare/ Facility managers play a key role in keeping healthcare spaces safe, clean, and pest-free. Even a brief lapse can have serious consequences for everyone inside. Pests pose health threats, but they also damage public confidence and trust in care standards. McCloud Pest Solutions provides expert commercial pest control designed specifically for healthcare settings. Our services focus on prevention, compliance, and safety, with proactive inspections and thorough reporting to stop issues before they arise. Why Choose McCloud Pest Solutions to Protect Your Healthcare Facility Your priority is patient and staff safety, and ours is helping you protect it. With reliable service, timely arrivals, transparent updates, and accessible documentation, we make pest control seamless and supportive of your healthcare mission. Serving Nashville for more than 100 years, McCloud Pest Solutions delivers healthcare-specific pest control with unmatched expertise. Our highly trained technicians follow all required industry standards. Pest Control Services for Healthcare Facilities We know healthcare environments must maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety. Our services are developed to align with those expectations and include solutions for: Hospitals Dental Offices Assisted Living Facilities Outpatient Facilities Clinics Medical Offices Long-term care Medical Lab Pest control in healthcare settings calls for a specialized strategy. That’s why we rely on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to stop problems before they begin. Rather than reacting to pests, we target the conditions that attract them. Our approach includes: Inspections: Thorough evaluations to identify potential entry points and areas where pests may be hiding or nesting. Customized Plans:... --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2025-10-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/customer-service/request-a-quote/ hbspt. forms. create({ portalId: "2602531", formId: "9abd0667-5f7b-4f71-b1b6-5c543fbb15d3", region: "na1" }); Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us to speak to a Customer Service Representative immediately 800-332-7805 Schedule A ServiceEmail Customer Service Customer ServiceMarkets Served CUSTOMER SERVICE Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Tel: 800-332-7805 Email: customerservice@mccloudservices. com --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/ipm-program-design/ McCloud Services can provide you with recommendations for an effective IPM Program that meets all third party audit standards and complies with the requirements of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Our programs are designed based on a detailed site survey and assessment of the risks observed. Review Your Existing Program McCloud Services can provide you with a detailed analysis of your existing IPM Program. Our analysis is based on a detailed site survey and review of your current program to ensure that you are protected from the potential contamination from pest activity. A detailed report is provided with our observations and recommendations for program improvements. --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/risk-assessment/ McCloud Services’ team of board-certified entomologists have the experience, knowledge and determination to help businesses validate existing pest management programs or troubleshoot chronic pest issues. Our staff of industry-recognized experts conduct gap analyses of existing pest management programs through systematic documentation review and an in-depth facility inspection. A comprehensive, science-based facility assessment report is issued at the conclusion of each consultation. Our Risk Assessments Include: Data Review: Review and analyze pest management records, trend reports and risk assessments to determine program integrity and effectiveness Site Inspection: Roof top to ground level inspection and risk assessment with a focus on pest prevention. Action Plan: Immediately available list of executables based on site inspection. Facility Assessment Report: Comprehensive write up with root cause analysis and detailed corrective action plans. --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/third-party-audit-prep/ McCloud Services knows how critical it is in the food industry to undergo a third-party audit to ensure facilities comply with industry regulations and adhere to food safety standards. Our experts provide a pre-audit analysis to help you prepare for the various audits your facility may face, whether corporate audits or third party audits. Third-Party & Client Audits We design our pest management programs for the food industry to be in compliance with your facility’s standards and the following third-party auditing agencies: GFSI Recognized Schemes including BRC, FSSC 22000 and SQF AIB International NSF Cook & Thurber NOP – National Organic Program certifying agencies Silliker ASI Food Safety Consultants Inspections to Help Your Business Pass Food Safety Audits Our pre-audit inspection service helps ensure the highest possible score on the pest management portions of third-party audits. Thanks to our thorough pre-audit inspection program, our customers consistently achieve perfect scores on the pest management portions of third-party audits. A member of our team can be available to accompany third-party agency auditors on audit day. --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/customized-training/ Food Safety Presentations Classroom-based food presentations on food safety issues Pest Management Training Training on pest biology and management and inspecting incoming goods. This training can be classroom based and/or hands on training at your facility. On-Site Technical Training Seminars Our staff can provide customized training at your site on a variety of topics related to food safety and pest management. Common topics: bed bug recognition and response, employee’s roles in pest prevention, pests and the GMP connection. Chemical Storage Compliance When pesticides are stored on site, proper storage practices must be followed for safety, regulatory and third party audit practice and compliance. McCloud can assist in confirming compliance with a chemical storage audit. Incoming Shipment Inspection Process and Training Training on the proper method of inspecting incoming shipments for pests. This training includes classroom instruction with an optional hands-on training option. Food Safety Training Food safety training by ServSafe certified instructor. Web-Based Training Seminars If training needs require the participation of several locations, McCloud is equipped to provide training via webinar to these locations. --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/consumer-complaints/ McCloud Services can help you by doing a thorough assessment of your facility, and practices, to identify potential areas of pest contamination and help determine the source. Our experts work with you to minimize and eliminate pest related consumer complaints. Investigation and Services may include: Visits with suppliers and distribution centers Contaminant identification services to confirm, ID and classify contaminant type Investigate current conditions and past pest activity Incoming shipment inspections Product storage practices Building construction and maintenance Outgoing carrier inspections Employee practices --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/contracted-audits/ McCloud Services can audit your contracted storage facilities, or suppliers, to provide you with assurances that these facilities are in compliance with your specifications. We can use your audit guidelines or, if you don’t have audit standards established, we can help you develop them. Our auditors have extensive experience in completing contracted audits. We can develop training for our auditors, and certify them, prior to doing audits for you. This service will provide you with consistency and assurance that your products are protected and meet your requirements. --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2025-10-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/schedule-a-service/ hbspt. forms. create({ portalId: "2602531", formId: "9abd0667-5f7b-4f71-b1b6-5c543fbb15d3", region: "na1" }); Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us to speak to a Customer Service Representative immediately 800-332-7805 Email Customer Service Request A Quote Customer Service Markets Served --- - Published: 2015-10-27 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/ipm/ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management. IPM focuses on tactics that prevent or avoid anticipated pest issues rather than remediating problems once they occur. A variety of tools are used to increase program effectiveness. These tactics may include exclusion, sanitation, pesticides, extreme temperatures, trapping, and many other scientifically-sound approaches. Our goal is to effectively prevent and manage pests, including ants, cockroaches and mice, with minimal disruption to your operations. Practices selected for a given facility are determined to have the lowest impact on both the environment and non-target organisms. We provide you with a complete list of pesticides, also known as our standard Approved Materials List, which is used in your facility. Or, we comply with an existing Approved Materials List specific to your facility or company. IPM approach: Reduces the reliance on traditional pest management chemicals Enables long-term pest management solutions Limits concerns regarding adulterated product Click to view McCloud's Service Listing --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2018-03-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/stored-product-pests/ Indian Meal MothWarehouse BeetleRice WeevilDrugstore BeetleFlour BeetleIndianmeal Moth Color: Copper reddish coloring on outer part of wings Legs: 6 Shape: Elongated oval Size: 5/8 – 3/4 inch long Antennae: Yes Region: Found throughout the U. S. Habits Indian Meal Moths are attracted to light and the adults can fly. Habitat Indianmeal Moths are found worldwide in areas where food is processed or stored, such as grocery stores. The adults are typically found flying in food storage areas, while the larvae are typically in the food itself. Their preferred foods are bird seed, dog food, dried fruits, grains, seeds, nuts, chocolate, candies, powdered milk, dried red peppers and candy. Threats Indianmeal Moths infest foods and can consume and contaminate food products with their fecal matter, webbing, and body parts. Prevention Dried food products (such as pet foods, cereal, baking mixes, cocoa, etc. ) should be inspected thoroughly for signs of Indianmeal Moth infestations. Discard infested foods in outdoor trash bins. Clean infested areas thoroughly with a vacuum and soap and water. Store food in sealed containers. Work with a licensed pest management company to eliminate and prevent infestations. Warehouse Beetle Color: Brownish black with yellow markings Legs: 6 Shape: Oval Size: 1/4 - 1/8 inches long Antennae: Yes Region: Found throughout the U. S. Habits Warehouse beetles are attracted to light and can fly. They molt 32 times as larvae, thus leaving behind many shed “skins” as evidence of their presence. Habitat Warehouse beetles are found worldwide in areas where food... --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky Worried about what pests may be damaging your property? Determine what insects or other bugs are pestering you, and learn how to prevent an infestation, by using our Pest Guide. Browse the pest profiles in our comprehensive Pest Guide to identify insects and other bugs. Rodents Cockroaches Ants Flies Stored Product Pests Bed Bug Other Pests --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/food-safety-consulting/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky McCloud Services offers comprehensive consultations for your facility. These services provide an analysis of the current state of: Pest management programs and current pest problems Employee practices Compliance with third-party audit standards and government regulations Sanitation In addition to general pest management consulting, food safety audits can also be arranged. These audits focus on the structure and conditions of your facility, employee practices, storage conditions, the exterior, as well as insect and rodent pests. Our detailed inspection reports provide you with observations, deficiencies and recommendations to help you maintain your high quality standards. --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-07-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/pest-management-services/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky McCloud Services designs pest management programs specifically for the commercial marketplace that are the ideal choice for businesses and industries in Chicago and throughout Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, Ohio, and Wisconsin. To learn more about our pest management programs, please click on the service you are interested in. IPM Bird Management Fumigation Pest Exclusion Bed Bug Management Fly Management Stored Product Pest Protection Electronic Data Collection LEED Compliant Programs Organic Compliant Programs Commercial Drain Cleaning Commercial Mosquito Control --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-10-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/customer-service/ Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us to speak to a Customer Service Representative immediately 800-332-7805 Request A Quote Schedule An Inspection Email Customer Service Locations Access Your MyAccount Online with McCloud's Customer Web Portal Utilizing our secure Customer Web Portal, clients can: Update contact and billing information Pay your invoice online Access Important Documents (Invoices / billing history, certificate of insurance, licenses and certifications, service reports and more) Print and export data (including times of service, problem areas, pest activity and materials used) Create customized email alerts Don't Have Access? Sign Up for MyAccount --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-01-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/rodents/ Deer MouseHouse MouseMeadow VoleNorway RatsRoof RatDeer Mouse Color: Brown with white feet and underbelly. Tail is bicolored with white on the bottom. Legs: 4 Size: 5/8 – 3/4 inch long Region: Found throughout the U. S. Habits Deer mice often nest in old fence posts, tree hollows, log piles, abandoned bird nests and beneath decks. During winter months, they may invade businesses, homes, garages, sheds or rarely used vehicles to seek shelter. Inside, they can make their nest in storage boxes, stuffed furniture, drawers, wall voids and tight areas. Deer mice feed at dusk and dawn, preferring insects, seeds, nuts, berries and small fruits. Habitat The deer mouse makes its home outdoors. Sheltered areas such as hollow tree logs or piles of debris make the ideal deer mouse habitat. On the rare occasions the deer mouse comes indoors, it prefers undisturbed areas such as attics. Threats Deer mice are a medical concern because they are the common carrier of Hantavirus. This virus is transmitted primarily by the inhalation of dust particles contaminated with the urine, feces or saliva of infected deer mice. Prevention To keep deer mice and other rodents out, make sure all holes of larger diameter than a pencil are sealed. Mice can squeeze through spaces as small as a dime. Seal any cracks and voids. Clearing of overgrown shrubs and weeds can help make the exterior of structures less inviting to deer mice. Keep wood piles away from structures. Use heavy gloves and protective breathing gear when... --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/ants/ Carpenter AntPavement AntArgentine AntOdorous House AntPharaoh AntLittle Black AntCarpenter Ant Color: Usually red, black or a combination Legs: 6 Shape: Segmented with 3 main body regions Size: ¼ - ¾ inch long Antennae: Yes and may have wings Region: Found throughout the U. S. Carpenter ants get their name because they excavate wood in order to build their nests. Their excavation results in smooth tunnels inside the wood. Sometimes there will small piles of sawdust associated with their nest building. If you look closely, you will see dead insects and insect parts mixed in with the wood shavings. Habits Carpenter ants typically attack wood that is or has been wet. They usually come into structures through cracks around doors and windows, holes in a structure meant for wires or through wet, damaged wood. They will also crawl along overhead wires, shrubs or tree limbs that touch the building far above the ground. Carpenter ants build their nests in various wood sources including tree stumps, fence posts, firewood or landscaping. A colony can have multiple nests inside structures as well as outdoors. Habitat Carpenter ants build their nests outdoors in various wood sources including tree stumps, firewood or landscaping. They also can build nests in voids like hollow core doors or curtain rods. They may build a satellite nest in structures in a void or wood, especially wood that may have been damaged by water. Threats Carpenter ants damage wood through their nest building and do not feed on the wood.... --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2018-03-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/flies/ Small Fruit FlyHouse FlyPhorid FlyDrain/Moth FlyBottle FlySmall Fruit Fly Color: Tan / light with light and dark banding on the abdomen and eyes red in color Legs: 6 Size: 1/8 of an inch Antennae: Yes, short in length Region: Found throughout the U. S. Fruit flies get their common name from their small size and fondness of over ripening fruits and vegetables. Small fruit flies are nuisance pests. They have been shown to vector food borne pathogens like E coli. Habits Fruit flies feed on decaying matter, especially fruits and vegetables. Habitat Fruit flies are small pests that are commonly found in homes, restaurants and other facilities where food is processed. They are found on moist, decaying matter that has been stationary for several days. Threats Fruit flies are found in unsanitary conditions, so they are a potential health concern, especially when present in health facilities or commercial establishments where food is prepared. Prevention Fruit flies are best prevented through vigilant sanitation practices. To exercise proper fruit fly management, remove kitchen trash daily, clean underneath trash receptacle liners and keep counter surfaces clean. Refrigeration of prone fruits and vegetables can also help reduce small fruit fly problems. House Fly Color: Dark gray with four dark stripes on the area behind the head. Legs: 6 Size: ¼ of an inch Antennae: Yes Region: Found throughout the U. S. House flies get their name from being the most common fly found around homes. Adult house flies can grow to one-quarter of an... --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2024-11-19 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/bed-bugs/ Color: Mahogany to red-brown Legs: 6 Shape: Flat, broad oval when unfed; swollen and elongated when fed. Size: 1/4 inch long Antennae: Yes Region: Found throughout the U. S. and world. Bed bugs likely get their name from their habit of feeding on humans while they sleep in their beds. They are found in virtually every place people tend to gather, including residences, hotels, schools, offices, retail stores and even public transportation. Habits Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers. They will hide in luggage, purses, laptop cases and other personal belongings in an effort to find a human food supply. They are elusive creatures. They can hide in bedding and mattresses. Bed bugs can also hide behind baseboards, in electrical switch plates and picture frames, behind wallpaper and nearly anywhere inside a home, car, bus, hotel, college dorm, etc. Habitat Bed Bugs like to hide in small cracks and crevices close to a human environment. They can be found behind baseboards, wallpaper, upholstery, and in furniture crevices. Beg bugs are also known to survive in temporary or alternative habitats, such as backpacks and under the seats in cars, buses and trains. --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2018-06-26 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/other-pests/ American Dog TickBald-faced HornetBlack Widow SpiderBrown Marmorated Stink BugBrown Recluse SpiderCellar SpiderEarwigFleaHouse CricketMosquitoPaper WaspSilverfishSpringtailSubterranean TermiteYellow JacketAmerican Dog Tick Color: Brown with whitish to gray markings Legs: Larvae have 6 legs, nymphs and adults have 8 legs Shape: Oval, flattened Size: 3/16” (5 mm) unengorged, 5/8” (15 mm) engorged Antennae: No Region: Found throughout the U. S. except the Rocky Mountains area. The American dog tick gets its name from the fact that adult ticks prefer domestic dogs as hosts, and this tick species is only found in North America. Habits It is thought that American dog ticks are attracted by the scent of animals, so they are common along roads and trails. Adult ticks prefer domestic dogs as hosts and can therefore be brought into the structure or home by pets and potentially transferred to humans. Habitat These ticks prefer grassy areas with low vegetation where larger mammals pass by. American dog ticks do not survive well indoors. Threats The American dog tick is the primary vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in the United States. It is also known to transmit tularemia, a rare bacterial infection, and cause tick paralysis. Prevention When in an area where ticks are common, wear long sleeved shirts and pants, preferably light colored so ticks will be easy to detect. Tuck pants into socks, and use a tick repellent when outside. To get rid of ticks and limit risks indoors, inspect clothing and skin when heading inside. Wash clothes immediately. If a tick is... --- - Published: 2015-10-26 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/identify-a-pest/cockroaches/ American CockroachBrownbanded CockroachGerman CockroachOriental CockroachAmerican Cockroach Color: Reddish-brown, with a yellowish figure 8 pattern on the shield behind the head Legs: 6 Shape: Oval Size: Up to 2 inches long Antennae: Yes Region: Found throughout the U. S. and world The American cockroach, or palmetto bug,” is the largest of the house infesting cockroaches. Despite its name, the American cockroach is not native to North America, but was probably introduced via ships from Africa in the 1600s. Habits Although American cockroaches can be found in homes, they are also common in larger commercial buildings such as restaurants, grocery stores, food processing plants and hospitals. They are known to infest food storage and food preparation areas, as well as basements, yards and alleys. In Northern climates the most common route into structures is through drains and sewer pipes. In the south, they may live outdoors and come in from the exterior. Habitat Although American cockroaches can be found in homes, they are also common in larger commercial buildings such as grocery stores, food processing plants and hospitals. American roaches are also known to infest basements, yards and alleys, especially in tropical to semi-tropical environments. Threats Cockroaches have been reported to spread at least 33 kinds of bacteria, six kinds of parasitic worms and at least seven other kinds of human pathogens. They can pick up germs on the spines of their legs and bodies as they crawl through decaying matter or sewage and then carry these onto food or food surfaces.... --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/packaging/ Protecting You So You Can Package the Goods We understand the relationship between pest management, food safety and business work to help companies in the industry achieve a pest free environment. Our pest management program ensures food safety throughout the chain of custody using a scientific, data-driven approach that is dependent on understanding and monitoring client environments. PEST MANAGEMENT TRENDS IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY Download Now CASE STUDY: FUNGUS GNATS IN A FOOD PACKAGING WAREHOUSE Download Now Programs Designed for Your Packaging Facility Programs in accordance with all third-party auditing agencies including Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) – Audit ready, all the time Proactive prevention of pests that delivers long-term protection against the risk to your brand and bottom line Programs that support customer complaint reduction initiatives Pest Management for the protection of Your Products Detailed and regulatory-compliant documentation of service programming, materials used, methods of application, and pest activity trends Utilization of a tactical approach combined with quality initiatives and technology to analyze data quickly, resulting in fast corrective actions Support available 24/7/365 with a guaranteed response time A program that works in harmony with your food safety plan through recognition and adherence to good manufacturing practices, documentation, and an understanding of HARPC --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky Commodity Food Processing Food Packaging Food Distribution Grocery Restaurants --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/commodity/ The management of pests in commodity storage facilities requires a high degree of expertise, professionalism, and knowledge. Our pest management techniques are effective, economical and emphasize food safety, worker safety and contamination prevention. We provide fumigation services and partner with our customers in coordinating fumigation alternatives. CASE STUDY: POST HARVEST GRAIN STORAGE FACILITIES Download Now PROPER TRANSPORTATION OF PROCESSED FOODS & COMMODITIES Download Now GLOBAL TRADE BRINGS MORE PEST PROBLEMS Download Now Programs Designed for Your Facility Complete programs that protect the interior and the exterior of storage and processing areas Proactively prevent pests to mitigate risk of load rejection or embargo Programs that help ensure successful partnerships with your customers in satisfying their food safety needs Pest Management that Protects Your Product and Reputation Detailed and regulatory-compliant documentation of service programming, materials used, methods of application, and pest activity trends Inspection and monitoring programs for early recognition of pest activity Utilize a tactical approach combined with quality initiatives and technology to analyze data quickly, resulting in fast corrective actions Support available 24/7/365 with a guaranteed response time Limit your exposure to risk and liability with practices designed to meet the goals of a safe and effective fumigation services --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2025-11-25 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/food-processing/ Protecting Your Facility While You Feed the World We understand the relationship between pest management, food safety, and business to help companies in the industry achieve a pest-free environment. Our pest management program ensures food safety throughout the chain of custody using a scientific, data-driven approach that is dependent on understanding and monitoring client environments. BEST PRACTICES FOR FOOD PROCESSING FACILITIES Download Now PEST EXCLUSION TIPS FOR STORED PRODUCT PESTS Download Now CASE STUDY: GERMAN COCKROACHES IN A FOOD PLANT Download Now McCloud Services offers protection from food safety concerns and supports consumer complaint reduction initiatives. We stay up to date on regulatory requirements and help our clients navigate through the intricacies of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Our programs are based on site surveys and risk assessments to ensure that preventative controls are in place to comply with the Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventative Controls (HARPC) provisions of FSMA. They’re also all in accordance with all third-party auditing agencies, including the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). Overall, we take pest prevention proactively to reduce the risk against your brand’s reputation and bottom line. Comprehensive Pest Management Solutions for Food and Beverage Processing At McCloud Services, we recognize the critical interplay between pest management, food safety, and operational success in the food and beverage processing industry. We use a scientifically-driven, data-centric approach to our services, which include: Rodents: Our team humanely removes and excludes rats, mice, and more from your premises to maintain a sanitary environment. Cockroaches: We utilize... --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2025-11-25 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/food-distribution/ Protecting You So You Can Deliver the Goods We understand the relationship between pest management, food safety and business to help companies in the industry achieve a pest free environment. Our pest control program ensures food safety throughout the chain of custody using a scientific, data-driven approach that is dependent on understanding and monitoring client environments. PROPER TRANSPORTATION OF PROCESSED FOODS AND RAW COMMODITIES Download Now BEST PRACTICES FOR FOOD DISTRIBITUION FACILITIES Download Now TOP 10 PEST VULNERABLE ZONES IN FOOD DISTRIBUTION CENTERS Download Now Programs Designed for Your Food Distribution Facility Protection from product contamination and food safety risks Proactively prevent pests to reduce product shrink and revenue loss Programs in accordance with all third-party auditing agencies including Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Proactive prevention of pests that delivers long-term protection against the risk to your brand and bottom line Programs that support consumer complaint reduction initiatives Programs that help ensure successful partnerships with your customers Pest Management for the Protection of Your Products Detailed and regulatory-compliant documentation of service programming, materials used, methods of application, and pest activity trends Utilization of a tactical approach combined with quality initiatives and technology to analyze data quickly, resulting in fast corrective actions A program that works in harmony with your food safety plan through recognition and adherence to good manufacturing practices, documentation and an understanding of HARPC Support available 24/7/365 with a guaranteed response time Optimized programs that focus more time and resources on areas of higher risk --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/grocery/ Helping You Provide the Ultimate Shopping Experience Your company works hard to attract and maintain loyal customers. A pest sighting can affect a customer’s trust in your store, your brand, and the brands of the products you are selling. Due to constant deliveries and traffic in and out of stores, the vulnerability of a pest infestation is high. Our pest control program is designed to prevent and manage pests with minimal disruption to your operations. BEST PRACTICES FOR THE RETAIL FOOD INDUSTRY Download Now CASE STUDY: RODENTS IN A RETAIL FOOD STORE Download Now KEEPING PET FOOD FROM BECOMING PEST FOOD Download Now Programs Designed for Your Store Protection from product contamination and food safety risks Proactively prevent pests to reduce product shrink and revenue loss Prevent pest sightings by customers Prevent Health Department citations Pest Management to Protect Your Customers, Employees and Reputation Innovative methods to deliver customized protection against risk A guaranteed response time and a flexible schedule to fit your operational needs Service specialists are certified in The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s ServSafe™ Food Safety Training course Organic compliant programs --- - Published: 2015-10-21 - Modified: 2025-07-08 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/food-industry/restaurants/ Serving Nashville | Waterloo | Maryland Heights | Decatur | Kentucky Your pest problem is our top priority. Running a restaurant, café, bar, bistro, industrial kitchen, dining hall, or any other food-related business comes with enough stress, unexpected pest issues shouldn't be one of them. With tighter budgets and the growing importance of online reviews, a single pest incident can severely impact your bottom line. What you need is a pest control partner who knows the ins and outs of the foodservice world, acts fast when problems arise, and proactively works to prevent future infestations. At McCloud Services, we specialize in pest control solutions for restaurants and similar businesses. Since 1904, we’ve been trusted by the foodservice community for responsive, effective, and discreet service. German Cockroaches in Restaurants Download Now Best Practices for the Restaurant Industry Download Now Case Study: Phorid Flies in a Restaurant Download Now Why Food Businesses Choose McCloud Services Selecting a pest control provider for your restaurant, café, commercial kitchen, or foodservice facility is a big decision. Here’s what sets McCloud Services apart in a crowded market: Specialized Knowledge: Our team is well-versed in pest control best practices tailored to foodservice environments. We have a long-standing reputation for resolving insect and rodent issues, as well as wildlife-related concerns. Rapid Response: Pest problems in restaurants, cafés, and kitchens require immediate attention. We respond quickly to reduce disruptions and help maintain your business flow. Low-Profile Service: Our technicians work discreetly to avoid drawing unnecessary attention while on-site. Thorough... --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky McCloud Services is a leader in integrated pest management solutions in the food supply chain of custody, health care, hospitality, property management and retail industries. Protecting more than half of the largest food related brands in the U. S. , our highly trained and experienced service specialists and entomologists use an ongoing, flexible approach designed to meet each clients’ specific needs. --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2025-10-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/contact/ hbspt. forms. create({ portalId: "2602531", formId: "9abd0667-5f7b-4f71-b1b6-5c543fbb15d3", region: "na1" }); Our Customer Service team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us to speak to a Customer Service Representative 800-332-7805 Customer Service Markets Served --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/about-mccloud/careers/ In today’s market, professional pest management is critical to protecting brand, reputation and bottom line. McCloud Services is a leader in integrated pest management solutions for the food supply chain of custody, health care, hospitality, property management, retail industries and residential markets. We strive to provide a great place to work and create an environment that inspires and cultivates success. We are looking for people to join our team that are committed to delivering exceptional customer service. Founded on the values of honesty, integrity, respect, safety and quality, McCloud is committed to recruiting, developing and retaining exceptional people. If you are interested in being part of a team whose purpose is to protect human health, food and the environment; explore a career with McCloud Services. Apply Now --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2019-08-14 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/customers/ Customers are the Reason We Exist We put our customers at the center of everything we do. Customer satisfaction is a key driver for our business; we believe that delivering what our customers want is the way to build partnerships and grow our company. Our business is built on the values of Honesty, Integrity, Respect, Safety and Quality. Approach and Customer Experience Trust and satisfaction comes from the overall experience a customer receives from point of sale to implementation. We work hard to do it right throughout every step in the process. Our customers vary and so do their needs. Before implementing our programs we make sure we understand what business results our customers must achieve. We assess their needs and provide simple or integrated solutions to help make our customers better at achieving their objectives. Assets Our assets support our customers. As a family owned organization without public stockholders our interests lie with reducing our customer’s risk and adding to their profitability. With over 100 years of industry and market experience we have built value propositions that help solve problems that impact our customer’s bottom line. Our people are our most valuable asset. We provide the right people with the right tools to serve our customers. We recognize and celebrate success. We focus on performance and accountability. We strive to provide a great place to work and an environment that inspires success. Markets We are proud of who are customers are. And we are proud that we are trusted... --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/industries/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky We take pride in our ability to resolve the toughest pest management challenges for industries in businesses and commercial facilities. Our team of commercial service specialists is trained to implement a pest management program that meets your company’s needs. To learn about how we can help your company achieve and maintain a pest free environment select your industry below. --- - Published: 2015-10-20 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-can-we-help/ Pest Control and Exterminators in the MidwestServing Indiana | Illinois | Missouri | Kentucky --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-11-17 - Modified: 2025-11-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/5-ways-to-keep-rodents-out-of-hotels/ In the hospitality industry, keeping pests out is essential for creating positive guest experiences and protecting your brand. McCloud Services’ comprehensive rodent management solutions help hotels, motels, and B&Bs protect their reputation while focusing on guest satisfaction. The presence of rodents in any hospitality establishment can trigger lasting consequences that extend far beyond a single incident. Whether it's a rat spotted in the dining area or evidence of mice in a room, these situations demand immediate professional intervention. With the right approach and professional support, hospitality managers can create environments where guests feel comfortable and secure. These practical strategies will help you maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and safety throughout your property. Professional Rodent Control Strategies Implement regular property monitoring. Consistent property inspections form the foundation of effective rodent management in hospitality settings. By establishing routine checks throughout your facility, you can detect potential issues before they impact guest experiences. Key areas requiring regular monitoring include: storage rooms, utility spaces, and areas behind furniture or equipment. Look for telltale signs such as gnaw marks, nesting materials, or rodent waste in concealed locations. Scheduling weekly inspections using proper lighting equipment allows staff to thoroughly examine vulnerable areas. This proactive approach enables swift intervention when necessary, preventing minor issues from escalating into major infestations. Eliminate access points throughout your facility. Preventing rodent entry requires a comprehensive evaluation of your building's exterior and interior vulnerabilities. These resourceful pests can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, making thorough inspection essential. Window... --- - Published: 2025-10-29 - Modified: 2025-10-29 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/choosing-a-commercial-pest-control-partner/ Building your business has taken time, effort, and dedication, and every detail contributes to your success. But a single pest issue can undo all that progress, causing failed inspections, damaged inventory, costly closures, and even lost customer confidence. Staying one step ahead of pests is essential to protecting everything you’ve worked for. This guide will help you identify the right pest control partner for your operation. You’ll discover what qualities to look for and how to form a lasting partnership that safeguards your business and keeps your facilities pest-free year-round. What Can the Right Pest Control Company Do for You? How do you know if a commercial pest control provider is the right fit for your business? It comes down to what they deliver beyond standard service. True pest management isn’t only about addressing issues as they arise but about keeping them from happening in the first place. The best partners use proactive, multi-layered strategies that prevent infestations early and handle any that appear swiftly and effectively. Before you decide, review these four critical factors to ensure your pest control partner meets your needs: Service Footprint Service Capabilities Service Delivery Communications, Reporting, and Program Management Four Important Things to Look for in a Pest Control Partner Service Footprint The service footprint of a pest control company isn’t just about geography; it’s about performance. It demonstrates their capacity to provide dependable, high-quality service across multiple sites. A provider with strong national or regional coverage gives you one point of contact and... --- - Published: 2025-10-27 - Modified: 2025-10-28 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-rodents-in-healthcare-facilities/ Rodents are bad news for hospitals and medical centers. They carry germs that can make people sick, and they can chew through important medical equipment and supplies. This can cost money in repairs and put patients at risk. We at McCloud Services put together this simple guide to help keep mice and rats out of your medical building. However, keep in mind that the best way to keep rodents out is by bringing in professional exterminators to inspect, remove, and prevent infestations. Types of Rodents Deer Mouse These small mice have big eyes and ears. They're brown on top with white bellies and feet. Deer mice like living in rural areas but will move into buildings when it gets cold. They're dangerous because they can spread hantavirus through their droppings. You'll often find them in basements, attics, or storage areas. House Mouse The most common mouse in medical buildings. They're gray or brown and only about 3 inches long. House mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime. They breed fast. One pair can have 35 babies in a year! They contaminate food and medical supplies with their droppings and urine. Meadow Vole Also called field mice, these rodents are stockier than house mice with shorter tails. They're dark brown or gray. While they usually stay outside, they sometimes enter buildings through ground-level openings. Meadow voles can damage landscaping and create runways in the grass near your building. Norway Rat The bigger of the two common rats. They're... --- - Published: 2025-10-22 - Modified: 2025-10-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-solutions-for-healthcare-environments/ In Nashville, healthcare environments include a wide range of spaces such as patient rooms, lobbies, exam rooms, waiting areas, hallways, and cafeterias. Each of these areas can be attractive to pests if preventive steps aren’t taken. Proper pest control is critical since even a small, unnoticed problem can grow into a large infestation that compromises patient satisfaction. If you work in a healthcare setting, these are some of the most common pests you should be aware of: Cockroaches A single cockroach has the potential to start a large infestation because of how fast these pests multiply. Cockroaches are more than just a nuisance; they are vectors for bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can be dangerous to patients already facing health challenges. In addition, the allergens in their saliva, droppings, and skin sheddings can trigger asthma or allergic symptoms. Cockroaches tend to stay hidden in dark spaces, making them difficult to spot until the problem grows. They can enter buildings through shipments or deliveries and quickly establish themselves. Their adaptability and rapid reproduction make professional healthcare pest control essential for long-term elimination. Bed Bugs As their name suggests, bed bugs are parasitic insects that thrive in areas where people sleep, feeding on blood during the night. They are easily transported on clothing, luggage, or belongings, which allows them to spread quickly between locations. Once inside, they multiply rapidly, and even a single bug may signal a much larger infestation. Their bites vary in effect, ranging from mild itchiness to... --- - Published: 2025-10-14 - Modified: 2025-10-14 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-choose-a-healthcare-pest-control-partner/ Healthcare facilities face unique challenges when it comes to pest control, and the consequences of even a single sighting can be severe. Pests can trigger regulatory violations, compromise patient health, and harm the reputation your team has worked so hard to build. Effective prevention requires constant vigilance and a proactive strategy. Selecting the right pest management professional is critical for keeping your Nashville facility secure. A skilled pest management professional acts as an integral part of your hospital’s safety and environmental health team, providing the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain a safe, sanitary environment and ensure your program’s success. So, what’s the best way to make a confident decision? Our professionals at McCloud Services have created a checklist specifically for healthcare administrators and facility managers to simplify the selection process. Selecting the Right Healthcare Pest Control Partner Partnering with the wrong pest control service can result in compliance issues, safety hazards, and costly disruptions to operations. Even a brief lapse in service can have long-term consequences for patients and staff. Trusted healthcare pest control providers showcase their expertise through certifications, documented experience with medical facilities, and a clear grasp of your facility’s specific challenges. At McCloud Services, we offer references from similar healthcare organizations and provide our training protocols as well as detailed service agreements. These agreements explain our compliance procedures, and we collaborate with your team to create treatment plans tailored to your facility’s design, patient needs, and workflow. Essential Checklist for Selecting a Pest Control Partner Selecting... --- - Published: 2025-10-02 - Modified: 2025-10-28 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/prevent-pests-from-invading-your-healthcare-facility/ Pests can find countless entry points into healthcare facilities, from tiny cracks to overlooked gaps. The best defense is knowing where they come from and taking steps to block them before problems arise. With the right precautions in place, you can reduce risks for patients and staff alike. Here are four simple actions that can stop most infestations: Close Off Entry Points: Seal cracks, crevices, and gaps both inside and outside the building to block pest access. Maintain Clean Spaces: Regularly clean and sanitize every area, paying special attention to places where pests tend to hide. Store Food Properly: Keep all food securely stored at all times to avoid attracting pests. Manage Waste: Remove trash frequently to prevent it from becoming a food source or breeding ground. Implementing these actions not only makes your Nashville facility harder for pests to enter but also cuts off the basic resources they seek. Without access to food, shelter, and water, pests are far less likely to linger. With that foundation in place, let’s explore healthcare facility pest prevention by examining the most common ways pests enter healthcare buildings. We’ll also share practical steps to prevent these vulnerabilities from turning into persistent problems. How Are Pests Finding Their Way into Healthcare Buildings? Pests don’t just show up without a reason. They always find a way in, often through overlooked openings or conditions. Here are five common ways they enter healthcare facilities. 1. The Risk of Open Doors and Windows It’s not unusual for pests... --- - Published: 2025-08-21 - Modified: 2025-08-21 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/control-mosquito-activity-around-your-hotel/ Whether they’re traveling for business, relaxation, or a special celebration, guests expect a welcoming, mosquito-free environment. Even one pesky mosquito can tarnish their outdoor experience and leave a negative impression. Partnering with a professional mosquito control provider is the most effective way to protect your property and your visitors. Take a look at the following strategies that can reduce mosquitos and foster an enjoyable atmosphere across your hotel grounds. The Impact of Mosquitoes on Guest Satisfaction When temperatures rise above 50°F and humidity levels climb, mosquito activity quickly increases. A single female can produce thousands of eggs in a short time, leading to rapid population growth. It’s more than just being irritating, mosquitoes are also capable of transmitting serious illnesses such as West Nile and Zika virus. Outdoor spaces are a key attraction for many weddings, corporate events, and family gatherings. Unfortunately, mosquito infestations can quickly spoil the experience, leaving guests upset and dissatisfied. Protecting these areas from mosquito activity is extremely important to host smooth, comfortable events and leave a positive impression. Practical Ways to Deter Mosquitoes Mosquitoes rely on stagnant water to reproduce, so prevention begins with eliminating potential breeding spots. Here’s a few areas to keep a close eye on: Pool Covers: Rainwater that gathers on pool covers creates an ideal egg-laying surface. Regularly remove, drain, or clean covers to prevent standing water. Decorative Landscaping: Features such as fountains, bird baths, and ponds can become breeding zones if left untreated. Use pesticides or remove unused water elements... --- - Published: 2025-08-07 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/doctors-offices-integrated-pest-management/ Patients expect every part of your doctor’s office, from the lobby to the exam rooms, to be clean and hygienic. A comfortable, pest-free environment helps them feel at ease and confident in your care. Unfortunately, pests like cockroaches, rodents, flies, and mosquitoes are not only unsettling but also unhygienic. These pests can carry bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, leave behind droppings or urine that pose health risks, and transmit food-borne or blood-borne illnesses. The presence of pests can cause patients to question your office’s cleanliness and then share their negative experience with others. What Are the Common Entry Points for Pests in Medical Offices? While good sanitation plays an important role in pest prevention, it’s not a foolproof solution. Even well-maintained, sterile medical offices can still be at risk. Rodents and insects often find ways in through: Incoming Goods: Pests can be accidentally brought in with delivered boxes, packages, or shipping materials. Human Carriers: Staff, patients, or visitors may unknowingly transport pests on clothing, bags, or shoes. Entry Points: Doors or windows that aren’t properly sealed can allow pests to walk or fly right in. Structural Gaps: Small openings in walls or around plumbing give pests easy access to interior spaces. Decorative Items: Infested flowers, potted plants, or greenery can introduce unwanted pests indoors. Utility Access: Insects and rodents often travel through pipes, drains, and underground utility lines. How Can You Best Prevent Pests in a Doctor’s Office? The best way to keep pests out of a medical... --- - Published: 2025-08-05 - Modified: 2025-08-06 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/keep-flies-away-from-my-business/ More than a simple annoyance, flies are known to transmit dangerous pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella. For businesses, this creates major sanitation and safety concerns, potentially resulting in failed inspections and a damaged public image. Fly infestations can grow fast, and quick fixes such as sprays rarely address the real cause of the problem. Trained fly management experts, like those at McCloud Services, target every stage of the fly lifecycle to ensure complete elimination. What Are The Stages of a Fly’s Lifecycle? Controlling a fly infestation is difficult due to how quickly flies reproduce. Their eggs can hatch into maggots within just two days, and under ideal conditions, they reach adulthood in about 10 days. Here's a look at each stage of the fly lifecycle: Eggs: Female flies deposit their eggs on decomposing materials like animal carcasses, waste, spoiled food, or garbage. A single female can lay up to 900 eggs during her lifetime. Larvae (Maggots): Eggs hatch within about 48 hours into larvae, commonly known as maggots. These young flies feed on the decaying material they were laid on, rapidly growing in size. Pupae: After feeding for 4 to 7 days, the maggots enter the pupal stage. They burrow into the surrounding material and develop inside a hardened outer shell. Adults: Adult flies emerge from their pupal casings in a matter of days to a few weeks, depending on temperature and moisture levels. Once mature, they live for about 3 to 4 weeks and begin the reproductive cycle.... --- - Published: 2025-07-09 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-pests-effect-your-property-management-business/ Pests may be small, but they can bring big challenges for property management teams. What starts as a minor issue can escalate quickly, resulting in expensive problems. Beyond being a nuisance, pests can impact your bottom line, disrupt operations, and strain tenant relationships. Pests often go unnoticed at first, but the problems they cause can grow fast. Here’s how they can impact property management: Health Hazards Linked to Pests Pests pose serious health risks to those living or working on your property. Many are known carriers of diseases, and others, like bed bugs, can leave behind painful, itchy bites. Flies and cockroaches can spread bacteria and contaminate food, while bird droppings may create slippery surfaces that lead to accidents and safety concerns. Property Damage Caused by Pests Pests don’t just pose health risks; they can also cause extensive damage to your property. Rodents often chew through wires, which increases the risk of electrical fires, while termites can quietly eat away at the wood inside walls. Termite-related property damage and treatment costs in the U. S. total around $5 billion annually. How Pests Hurt Productivity When pests show up, productivity can take a hit. Managing complaints and coordinating responses takes time away from core responsibilities. These distractions can affect your team’s ability to focus and perform efficiently, which may also reduce employee morale over time. Reputation Risks from Pests A single pest sighting can do lasting damage to your company’s reputation. In today’s connected world, word of an infestation spreads quickly... --- - Published: 2025-07-08 - Modified: 2025-07-08 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/mosquito-control-to-protect-your-business/ Rising temperatures lead to increased mosquito activity, bringing irritation and potential health hazards. Mosquitoes thrive in warm weather, making prevention more challenging. These pests can negatively affect customer enjoyment of outdoor spaces, making businesses like hotels, restaurants, and offices more vulnerable. As a business owner or manager, what steps can you take to safeguard your employees and customers from mosquitoes? First, grasp the severity of the threat. Mosquitoes reproduce quickly, laying about 100 eggs in water as tiny as a bottle cap and up to 3,000 eggs within weeks. Although mosquitoes are commonly associated with heat, they can still be active when temperatures fall to 50 degrees. Their bites often result in itchy welts, making outdoor activities unpleasant, and some mosquitoes carry dangerous illnesses like the West Nile virus. Prevent Mosquitoes Reducing mosquitoes around your business starts with making the environment unappealing. Follow these straightforward tips to keep mosquitoes away from your property: Standing Water: Even small amounts of standing water can become mosquito breeding grounds. Regularly empty birdbaths every 3–4 days, clean flower pot trays and drain pans, and maintain decorative water features carefully. Leak Repairs: Fix any leaks in fountains, irrigation systems, or other water features that could cause water to accumulate near your building. Airflow Solutions: Consider installing ceiling fans in outdoor seating areas, as mosquitoes are weak fliers and tend to avoid spaces with strong airflow. Gutter Care: Keep gutters and downspouts clear and well-maintained to prevent water from pooling due to blockages. Drainage Check: Ensure... --- - Published: 2025-06-24 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-stop-filth-flies-from-invading-your-business-this-summer/ Summer brings more than just heat; it also brings the persistent nuisance of filth flies. Though small, these pests can lead to major issues for your business by compromising cleanliness and damaging your reputation. With eggs hatching in just 24 hours and females laying hundreds to thousands monthly, it’s essential to stay ahead with proper prevention. It might feel like a daunting task, but staying on top of flies is completely manageable when you implement a clear and structured prevention approach. Here’s where to begin: Cleanliness First: Maintain strict sanitation and proper waste management practices to reduce attractants. Seal Entry Points: Use physical barriers like screens and door sweeps to keep flies out. Target Breeding Sites: Monitor for and remove potential fly breeding areas regularly. Control Conditions: Adjust environmental factors like moisture and lighting to make your space less fly-friendly. Expert Help: Work with a professional pest control provider who understands the needs of your specific industry. Summer Fly Prevention Tips Since 1904, McCloud Services has been a trusted name in commercial pest control across Nashville, gaining in-depth knowledge of how flies behave and invade business environments. Below, we’ll explore core prevention tactics and easy tips to improve your defenses: Sanitation and Waste Management Food residue and organic waste are prime targets for flies. Keeping these under control through strict sanitation routines is critical. Here are some top recommendations to help manage waste and reduce fly activity: Spill Cleanup: Immediately wipe up food spills and follow a routine deep-cleaning schedule,... --- - Published: 2025-05-30 - Modified: 2025-05-30 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/what-to-do-after-a-poor-health-inspection/ As a restaurant owner or manager, you understand the importance of maintaining a clean environment for your customers – without pests. This means a failed health inspection can have severe consequences for your business. It could lead to temporary closure and fines, as well as damage your reputation and drive customers away. If your restaurant doesn’t do well with a health inspection, it's crucial to take immediate action to address the issues and get back on track. Here's what you need to know about dealing with a bad health inspection and how our restaurant-tailored pest control services can help you protect your business. 6 Common Reasons for Poor Health Inspections Health inspections are conducted regularly by local and state health departments so that restaurants maintain a safe and hygienic environment. Some of the most common reasons for failing a health inspection include: Inadequate employee hygiene practices, such as improper handwashing. Incorrect food storage temperatures, leading to the growth of harmful bacteria. Unsafe food preparation techniques, including cross-contamination and improper defrosting. Unclean, malfunctioning, or hazardous equipment and utensils. Poor waste management and disposal practices. Signs of pest infestations or unsanitary conditions that attract pests. Even if you haven't yet experienced a pest infestation, a failed health inspection indicates that your restaurant is at risk. These issues pose health risks to your customers and create an environment that attracts pests like cockroaches, rodents, ants, and flies. How to Bounce Back from a Bad Restaurant Health Inspection Failing a health inspection can be... --- - Published: 2025-05-28 - Modified: 2025-05-28 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/tips-to-prevent-small-flies/ Small flies (including fruit flies, gnats, and drain flies), may be tiny but can cause major health hazards and sanitation issues for bars, restaurants, and cafes. They can rapidly increase in numbers and contaminate food preparation surfaces, posing a serious threat to your customers' health and safety. At McCloud Services, our fly control solutions (including our No Fly Zone™ program) are designed to protect your business through comprehensive inspection and control techniques for small fly breeding areas. Our experts have put together these ten tips to keep small flies at bay in your food service business: Clean Under Equipment Every Day Small fly-attracting organic debris, trash, and moisture can become trapped under and behind kitchen equipment and prep lines. Move equipment out of the way to clean these spaces and use a flashlight to highlight problem areas. Secure All Tiles Missing tiles or worn grout can collect organic debris and quickly become breeding sites for small flies. Make sure that all tiles are secured in place and the grout is intact. Remove Equipment Access Panels When Cleaning Food crumbs, moisture, dust, and other organic build-up collect quickly in, behind, and under equipment such as ovens, refrigerators, and coffee machines. Remove equipment access panels for deep cleaning or schedule a professional cleaning service regularly. Practice First In, First Out (FIFO) for Produce Fruit flies and gnats are attracted to produce that is beginning to spoil and can breed in rotten produce. Practice First In, First Out (FIFO) rotation by placing items... --- - Published: 2025-05-20 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-deal-with-stored-product-pests/ Stored product pests – also called pantry pests – are a major threat to any facility that deals with dried goods. Pantry pests include flour beetles, cigarette beetles, and more. They can spread through a facility quickly once they establish themselves, causing significant damage to your food supplies. These pests will eat anything from pet food to chocolate, and can easily cause contamination issues that lead to failed inspections, recalled products, and even the risk of closure. Whether you run a grocery store, a warehouse, a food processing plant, or any other type of business that stores dried goods, you need to make sure that your facility is protected. A specialized stored product pest control plan from McCloud Services is a great way to do that. How to Tell You Have Stored Product Pests Early detection is vital. The quicker you catch a pest problem, the easier it will be to treat. Make sure you keep an eye out for the following signs and get in touch with a pest control company as soon as you spot any. Holes chewed in storage containers or bags (or accompanying food spills) Moths or beetles anywhere in the building Webbing, larvae, or pupae in food storage areas However, pantry pests can be very hard to spot since they’re so small. Even the most careful amateur inspection is likely to miss a few signs. That’s why it’s important to have professional inspections performed even if you don’t think you have any pests on your... --- - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/eco-friendly-pest-control-for-your-business/ Earth Day highlights the importance of sustainable practices in every aspect of business, including pest control. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a forward-thinking solution that emphasizes prevention and environmental responsibility. By reducing chemical reliance, IPM supports healthier ecosystems, lowers costs, and enhances brand credibility. McCloud Services is committed to using Integrated Pest Management (IPM), replacing reactive methods with proactive, science-based techniques such as exclusion, sanitation, and monitoring. Our approach delivers lasting pest control while supporting your company’s sustainability goals and protecting the environment. What is Integrated Pest Management for Businesses? Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers a strategic, eco-conscious approach to commercial pest control. Rather than waiting for problems to escalate, IPM focuses on early intervention using minimal chemicals. By focusing on prevention, monitoring, and precise treatments, IPM minimizes pest activity and safeguards the environment. The foundation of IPM lies in a few key principles: Prevention Over Reaction: Taking proactive steps before pests become a problem reduces the likelihood of infestations and limits the need for chemical interventions. Monitoring and Identification: Routine inspections and accurate pest identification enable precise, timely responses that minimize unnecessary pesticide application. Threshold-Based Action: Treatments are only initiated when pest levels surpass acceptable limits, helping to prevent the overuse of chemical solutions. Multiple Control Tactics: By integrating biological, cultural, and physical methods, this approach limits chemical use while enhancing long-term effectiveness and ecosystem health. Positive Environmental Benefits of IPM Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is about more than just stopping pests; it’s a smarter way to protect the... --- - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/prevent-pest-activity-in-commercial-receiving-areas/ Receiving areas and loading docks are the lifeline of your business, as they keep products, ingredients, and supplies moving smoothly. However, that frequent activity also leaves the door open, literally and figuratively, for pests to slip inside. With people, deliveries, and materials constantly coming and going, pests have far too many opportunities to hitch a ride. Open doors, incoming shipments, nearby trash areas, and structures that appeal to nesting birds like sparrows all add to the risk. The good news is, there’s plenty of control options that can reduce pest activity without disrupting workflow. Here are some simple tips to get you started. Carefully inspect every shipment Pests can find their way into shipments at any stage, whether at the source, during transport, or after arrival. The importance of how to recognize pest activity should not be understated. Take a moment to teach all of your employees what to look out for, and the steps to take if they notice a problem. While you’re at it, take a moment to establish clear inspection standards with your suppliers. Collaborate to create detailed protocols, define your expectations, and agree on how to handle shipments that fall short of the requirements. A well-organized inspection list keeps your vendors aligned with the needs of your business, while reducing the risk of pest infestations. Refrain from opening easy access points In the middle of a busy day, it’s common for receiving area doors to stay open throughout the day. While this may be necessary every... --- - Published: 2025-03-12 - Modified: 2025-03-12 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/protecting-food-processing-facilities-from-birds/ Food and beverage facilities clean their property everyday, but the risk of bird contamination is sometimes neglected. Pest birds like pigeons and sparrows can cause operational disruptions and damage property. If you’ve noticed increased bird activity or nesting around your facility, contact McCloud Pest Solutions for professional bird control and prevention strategies. Health risks caused by birds Although birds may appear harmless, they can carry pathogens, fungal spores, and ectoparasites. These risks can spread through their feathers, nests, or droppings. Birds have been associated with over 60 diseases, including histoplasmosis, encephalitis, Salmonella, toxoplasmosis, and West Nile virus. Business risks caused by birds Even one bird or signs of activity in a food processing facility can interfere with operations. If discovered during a health or regulatory inspection, recorded bird activity could lead to shutdowns or plant closures. During third-party audits, bird presence may also impact business relationships and result in costly fines for violations. Addressing a bird issue requires more than a quick fix. Many species are protected under federal, state, and local laws, meaning actions like relocation or nest removal could lead to legal and financial consequences. Seeking expert guidance before taking action helps ensure compliance with these regulations. Which birds are frequent pests? A variety of bird species can be challenging for food processing facilities, but some are more troublesome than others. Smaller birds can easily find their way indoors, such as: English house sparrows Common European starlings Swallows Larger birds usually stay outdoors, but they can still contribute... --- - Published: 2025-02-20 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/what-to-do-when-birds-are-near-your-business-mccloud-pest/ Controlling birds around your property Managing birds is a significant challenge for many businesses. Birds not only create unsightly exterior displays and irritate customers, but also pose potential health risks. Pigeons and seagulls are the most common culprits, especially in urban areas. Several factors contribute to the difficulty of controlling them: Pigeons primarily eat grains and seeds but have adapted to city life by scavenging leftover food and trash. With consistent food sources, pigeons can breed year-round, with peak activity between March and July. Seagulls are highly territorial and return to the same nesting sites each year, making them difficult to remove once they’ve claimed a home. These birds have long lifespans—seagulls, in particular, can live up to 40 years and continue reproducing throughout their lives. An increase in bird nests around your property could indicate a growing infestation. Need bird control solutions? Contact McCloud Pest Solutions online or call 800. 332. 7805. Prevent access to food The best way to keep birds away long-term is by removing their food sources. However, in crowded urban areas, this is rarely something one person can control. If birds are causing issues around your business, try these first steps: Prevent access to nesting sites by installing barriers on window ledges and other common roosting spots. Keep food sources hidden to reduce their appeal. Secure trash can lids properly and avoid leaving garbage bags out in the open. McCloud Pest’s bird deterrent services Taking action at the first sign of bird activity can help... --- - Published: 2025-02-17 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/are-ant-sprays-effective-at-keeping-ants-away/ Businesses often face ant infestations, particularly in kitchens, break rooms, and outdoor spaces where food and shelter are easy to find. Ants are adaptable and difficult to control, forming trails and exploiting even small entry points. While ant sprays may provide a quick solution, do they offer a lasting fix? It’s crucial to understand how ant sprays work, their effectiveness for commercial-scale infestations, and the safety guidelines for use in high-traffic areas. This knowledge can help ensure a long-term solution to keep your business pest-free. How Does Ant Spray Work? The effectiveness of ant sprays lies in how they function. Most contain active ingredients designed to kill ants on contact or form a repellent barrier. These sprays commonly include: Neonicotinoids: Synthetic insecticides that specifically disrupt the nervous system of ants, causing fatal effects. While effective, they have drawn scrutiny over potential environmental risks. Pyrethroids: Lab-created chemicals inspired by natural chrysanthemum extracts, which incapacitate ants by attacking their nervous systems, leading to paralysis and death. Essential Oils: Plant-based oils, including peppermint, clove, and citrus are used in ant sprays as a natural deterrent. They offer a safer alternative but may not effectively handle large-scale infestations. Ant sprays create a protective barrier that either kills ants on contact or keeps them away. Their effectiveness depends on the ant species, the severity of the infestation, and how accurately they are applied. Does Ant Spray Work? Targeting ant trails with sprays offers swift action, killing ants upon contact. Unfortunately, this is a short-lived solution... --- - Published: 2025-02-17 - Modified: 2025-02-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/3-rodents-to-look-out-for-in-your-business/ Millions of rodents live throughout the U. S. , so it’s crucial to be efficient in your pest control. No matter your industry, preventing infestations before they begin is the easiest way to stay compliant with regulations, preserve your reputation, and maintain a responsible place of business. Knowing the different types of rodents you might face, the damage they can inflict, and the best methods for prevention is essential to maintaining a rodent-free business. Here’s what you should learn now to get a head start. Which Rodents are You Most Likely to Find? Rodents like Norway rats, Roof rats, and House mice thrive by feeding on humans and animals without providing any benefits in return. Their presence can lead to inventory losses, possible shutdowns, and damage to your business's reputation. Being opportunistic feeders, these rodents are constantly searching for their next food source. Regardless of your industry—whether in food supply, food service, retail, hospitality, or property management—you must stay alert. Checking for signs of rodent activity should become a part of your regular routine. House Mice Mice are always on the lookout for food and a warm, safe place to nest. Their fur can range from light brown to dark gray, and they usually measure between 2 to 5 inches long. Since they can fit through gaps as small as the size of a pencil, it’s necessary to seal even the smallest openings to keep them out. Mice are most active at night, when you and your team might not... --- - Published: 2025-02-12 - Modified: 2025-02-12 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/essential-tips-for-selecting-the-best-pest-control-plan-for-your-business/ How to choose a pest control plan Routine professional pest control services provide a safeguard for your business against undesirable pests. Choosing the right strategy for your business is essential, as pests can harm property, taint food, and present health hazards to both staff and customers. Many contemporary pest control plans, such as those offered by McCloud Pest Solutions, utilize Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a sustainable method focused on prevention and non-toxic techniques. But how can you determine which pest control plan is the best fit for your business? Industry dependent pest management When selecting your pest control plan, it’s important to choose one that fits your specific industry and the unique pest challenges you face. A proactive strategy, such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM), can play a key role in minimizing the likelihood of infestations. IPM is a comprehensive and sustainable pest control method that focuses on prevention, reduces environmental impact, and only resorts to pesticides when necessary. In contrast, non-IPM approaches are often reactive, relying heavily on chemical treatments that may offer temporary relief but fail to tackle the underlying causes of pest issues. By integrating prevention, monitoring, and precise treatments, IPM provides an effective solution for addressing the root causes of your business's pest problems. Understand the plan you choose It’s important to fully comprehend the details of the services included in your pest control plan. Make sure you’re clear on what is covered, including the types of pests addressed, the services offered, the frequency of visits,... --- - Published: 2025-01-02 - Modified: 2025-01-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/top-10-pest-issues-facing-food-processing-facilities/ Food processing facilities face a multitude of pest challenges on a daily basis. Each building is bound to have unique issues depending on its location and the types of products it handles and produces. Despite these differences, certain pests are frequently encountered across various facilities. An analysis of over 90,000 service visits revealed the top 10 pest challenges impacting food processors. Basics of risk-based pest control In 2015, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) brought a new focus to risk-based preventive controls for food manufacturing facilities. This strategy requires facilities to evaluate their unique risks, implement measures to reduce or eliminate those risks, confirm the effectiveness, and take corrective actions as needed to maintain them. These controls must be documented in detailed written records, alongside all related actions. What does this have to do with pest control? Well, understanding the specific pest risks at your facility allows you and your pest management provider to pinpoint vulnerable areas and develop effective plans to prevent pest entry or manage them if they infiltrate your facility. If you’ve noticed any signs of pest activity within your property, take a look at our service page and learn how we can help. Regular reviews of risk-based plans are essential to ensure they remain effective. Various factors can influence a facility’s pest control requirements, including: The introduction of new products, ingredients, equipment, suppliers, or processes, which can create additional risks. Construction or renovations that may necessitate updates to pest management strategies. Severe weather events, such as... --- - Published: 2024-12-03 - Modified: 2025-11-05 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-proofing-your-business-what-you-need-to-know/ How to Pest-Proof Your Business Pest infestations are more than just an inconvenience. They can damage property, harm your reputation, and even pose health risks. Whether it's rodents chewing wires or cockroaches carrying bacteria, unwanted pests can spell trouble for your business. The good news? With proactive measures like pest-proofing, you can stop pests in their tracks and protect your business. Contact a professional pest control company for comprehensive pest management solutions. Let’s explore how pest-proofing works, why it’s crucial, and the common pest threats businesses face. Why Pest-Proofing Matters Pests don’t just wander into buildings by chance—they’re looking for food, shelter, or both. When they find access points in your business, they can cause damage that’s expensive to repair, harm your inventory, and create unsanitary conditions. More importantly, a pest sighting can leave a lasting bad impression on customers, tarnishing your reputation and trustworthiness. That’s why exclusion—preventing pests from entering your building in the first place—is such a vital step in pest management. Common Pests in Businesses Certain pests are especially problematic for commercial spaces. Here’s a breakdown of some top offenders and the risks they bring: Rodents like mice and rats can chew through electrical wires, walls, and equipment. Mice can enter through openings as small as ¼ inch, while rats only need ½ inch to squeeze inside. These pests are not just destructive—they can also spread diseases through their droppings. Birds and bats can be noisy, messy, and unhygienic. Birds like pigeons need just a 2-inch opening... --- - Published: 2024-11-13 - Modified: 2024-11-14 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/secure-your-business-against-rodents-with-exclusion/ As temperatures drop, rodents are on the lookout for cozy environments with ample food and water — conditions that commercial spaces unintentionally offer. So in Nashville, running a successful business often means facing the persistent challenge of rat and mouse infestations. Recognizing the health hazards and damage rats and mice can cause, it’s crucial to maintain your reputation. At McCloud Services, we offer commercial pest exclusion tactics that resolve existing issues and protect your space from future rodent problems. We’re diving into our all-encompassing solutions designed to sustain the integrity of your business for continuous top-tier operations. The Rodent Risk to Your Business The moment rodents are detected in a business environment, prompt and firm action is necessary. At McCloud Services, we provide a rigorously formulated action plan that tackles: Health Standards: Rodents carry pathogens like Hantavirus, Salmonellosis, and Rat Bite Fever. Financial Impact: These pests can gnaw through wiring, structures, and even inventory, leading to hefty repair and replacement costs, as well as possible operational interruptions. Reputational Concerns: In today’s digital age, a single rodent sighting can quickly turn into a reputational nightmare, particularly for those in the food service and hospitality industries. McCloud Services's Tailored Exclusion Solutions Understanding the unique pressures your business may face, McCloud Services has refined our rodent exclusion services to include: Thorough Inspections: Our experts perform detailed inspections, identifying rodent entry points and nesting areas with precision. Customized Fortification Measures: Based on initial assessments, we implement strategic actions to seal these entry points effectively.... --- - Published: 2024-11-08 - Modified: 2024-11-14 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/rodent-prevention-strategies-for-every-business/ Known for destroying property and products and spreading disease-causing pathogens, the presence of rodents can spell trouble for your Nashville home or business. They contaminate food and surfaces and chew through items and building structures. In Nashville, you’ll likely run into the deer mouse, house mouse, Norway rat, or roof rat. Preventing these rodents yourself can be a challenge. Mice are nimble and can climb, run, jump, and squeeze through a hole the size of a dime. Rats are intelligent, and can outsmart your typical store-bought trap. Tips for Commercial Rodent Prevention Inspect roof areas and seal any gaps or openings around vents and HVAC units. Clean food serving, prep, and storage areas regularly. Store firewood and unused equipment away from the building. Keep dumpsters and garbage bins tightly covered and away from the building. Clean up spills immediately and keep food sealed. Eliminate clutter in basements and outdoor buildings. Keep landscaping well-trimmed and avoid having it touch the building. Install door sweeps on all exterior doors. Use rodent-proof materials such as hardware cloth, aluminum flashing, aluminum screening, or concrete to seal all exterior holes and openings. Place ¼ inch wire mesh screens over all exterior ventilation openings. Do not overwater mulched areas around a structure. Ensure that plumbing p-traps are filled with water so they are sealed. Use sodium vapor bulbs or LED lights of greater than 550 nm. Reduce humidity by using a dehumidifier. While these tips can help with rodent infestations temporarily, professional intervention with pest exclusion... --- - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2024-10-31 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/commercial-fly-traps/ The presence of flies in your business without commercial fly light traps can lead to unsanitary conditions, health code violations, and more. At McCloud Services, we offer top-tier fly control services and products with unmatched efficacy and reliability – helping you keep your business pristine and your customers satisfied. Learn more about fly trapping options here. The unsettling buzz and sight of flies, as you and your staff try to focus on customers or clients, is a scenario that no business owner wants to face. More than just a minor inconvenience, unsanitary conditions caused by fly infestations can lead to health code violations and compromise the quality of your service or products. Implementing fly traps in commercial environments is a robust way to manage these pests. Installing commercial traps allows you and your staff to maintain smooth business operations without the constant worry of flies. At McCloud Services, we specialize in pest control services and offer a top-tier commercial fly trap product that stands unmatched in efficacy and reliability. Types of Commercial Fly Lights Understanding the varieties of commercial fly light traps is crucial in choosing the right fit for your business. These traps are generally categorized based on where they’re installed: Wall-Mounted Traps: As the name suggests, these traps are mounted on walls and are highly effective in capturing flies. Wall Sconce Traps: Similar to decorative light fixtures, wall sconce traps offer a more aesthetic appearance while effectively catching flies. Ceiling-Mounted Traps: Installed on ceilings, these traps are excellent for wide coverage areas and discreetly manage to fly problems from above. Freestanding Traps: These versatile traps can be placed wherever needed, making them ideal for areas where wall or ceiling mounting is not feasible. What is the Most Effective Fly Trap for Businesses? Identifying the most suitable fly trap for your business depends on the... --- - Published: 2024-06-25 - Modified: 2024-07-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/why-your-healthcare-facility-needs-expert-pest-control/ In healthcare facilities, there's a continuous flow of people coming and going. That's why pest problems tend to crop up frequently in places like hospitals, doctor offices, and clinics. Our professional pest experts will create a plan to help you avoid these issues, and protect your patients. Learn more about how we can help. In healthcare facilities, there's a continuous flow of patients, visitors, and medical personnel – all of which make maintaining a high level of cleanliness challenging. Effective pest management is a necessity to safeguard the health of your patients and preserve the integrity of your healthcare services. The presence of pests, such as rodents and insects, poses a risk of contaminating sterile areas and carrying numerous diseases. Without strict pest control measures, your healthcare facility may face severe repercussions, including damage to your reputation and potential legal challenges. At McCloud Services, our team specializes in pest control services tailored specifically for the unique demands of healthcare environments. How Pests Enter Healthcare Facilities Pests often gain entry into healthcare facilities through open doors, unsealed windows, vents, and other structural breaches. Once inside, they find numerous opportunities to breed and hide, especially in areas like food storage, laundry, waste disposal, and patient care zones. The constant movement of patients and the delivery of supplies also act as additional pathways for pests. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires a strategic pest management approach that includes thorough disinfection and sealing of entry points. Most Common Pests in Healthcare Facilities Healthcare settings are hotspots for several types of pests, each bringing its own set of risks: Ants: Though generally less dangerous, ants can infiltrate sterile zones, risking the contamination of critical equipment and surfaces. Cockroaches: These pests are notorious carriers of numerous pathogens and find the humid, food-rich environments of healthcare facilities particularly appealing. Flies: Drawn to food... --- - Published: 2024-04-29 - Modified: 2024-11-19 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/protecting-your-hospitality-business-and-guests-from-bed-bugs/ Did you know that 80% of Americans are concerned about bed bugs at hotels? The unfortunate reality is, with travelers constantly coming and going, bed bugs are quite common in hospitality establishments. But don't worry -- our bed bug exterminators can protect your guests, and your reputation. Learn more about our process here. Did you know that nearly 80 percent of Americans are most concerned about encountering bed bugs at hotels? This statistic is not based on fiction, but on the unfortunate reality that the hospitality industry is known for bed bug encounters. With this in mind, it’s imperative to ensure the cleanliness of your establishment to maintain your status in the hospitality industry. Bed bugs are an easy way to tarnish your reputation and jeopardize your business. These tiny pests are not just a nuisance; they are a growing concern for hotels and resorts worldwide. In this article, we'll delve into why the hospitality industry should care about bed bugs and why regular inspections are crucial for safeguarding your establishment and your guests. Why Should Hospitality Businesses Care About Bed Bugs? Bed bugs are not discriminatory; they can infest the highest-rated hotels and resorts. The presence of bed bugs can result in a myriad of consequences that directly impact your business: Reputation Damage: It can take a single bad review about bed bugs for your hotel’s reputation to be damaged. This can deter potential guests from staying at your establishment. Guest Discomfort: Bed bug bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and emotional distress, leading to guest complaints and potential legal liabilities. Financial Loss: The financial loss from bed bugs occurs in more than one way. Professional experimentation services, compensations to affected guests, and lost revenue from room closures are just a few of the costs of having bed bugs. Bed Bug Prevention... --- - Published: 2022-02-04 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/german-cockroaches-in-restaurants/ Cockroaches will arrive from a number of sources: vendors, packaging, employees, customers, etc. The key is to make it an inhospitable environment for them. Learn more about our preventative measures you can take to protect your restaurant. Pests, like people, have personalities based upon their behavior. Just like in the human world, the pest world is made up of all “types. ” Imagine you’re at a party. There are the loud “in-your-face” extroverts that talk to anyone. They don’t have much of a filter, they’re always up in your business, can’t take a hint that they’re being too loud. Those are the flies. On the other side of the pest personality spectrum, we have the German cockroaches. These are the introverts. They’re the ones that cling to the wall at a party, preferring to stay out of the spotlight and in the dark. They don’t want to be noticed like their loud fly counterparts. They want to stay cozied up against the wall where they feel safe and secure. German cockroaches are cryptobiotic which means they prefer to stay hidden. In addition, they really prefer to have pressure on both sides of their body. A tight crevice gives them a feeling of security they just can’t obtain out in the open. On top of all these socially inept behaviors, they prefer darkness. The only reason they even came to the party is because it was in the dark. Cockroach Challenges for Restaurants To the restaurant manager, this spells trouble. A German cockroach population will make their nest in a sheltered, dark location. They’re not brash like flies, who will infest drains in the middle of the room with no discretion. No, German cockroaches actively avoid the spotlight,... --- - Published: 2022-01-03 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/common-ways-pests-hitchhike-into-a-retail-store/ Pests can run, crawl, fly and hitch-hike their way in. Some paths are obvious like a door that is left open, and some not so obvious. Here are two common ways pests can hitchhike into your store. Pests can run, crawl, fly and hitch-hike their way into retail stores. Some paths are obvious like a door which is left open or poorly sealed, and some not so obvious. Here are two common ways pests can hitchhike into your store. Staff and Contractors Hard to believe that our employees could be bringing pest into the workplace. However, several urban pests are excellent at hitch-hiking on people. These include the German cockroach and the common bed bug. We routinely find that when these pests inhabit workplaces, they arrive on the belongings of employees. A recent QA Magazine survey of food plant personnel revealed the following statistics when people were asked, where were cockroaches have been found in their facility: Employee Breakrooms / Kitchens - 58% In/Around Employee Lockers - 34% Exterior of the Facility - 26% Around Drains - 23% Around Garbage Bins - 15% Processing Area - 13% Pallet and Storage Areas - 13% The highest percentage of findings were in and around areas where employee’s store their personal belongings. Having a separate area for employees to store their belongings, including lunches, is critical. Training and monitoring employees for compliance is also part of the process. The pest management firm should inspect these areas for pest activity during service. Regularly schedule employee locker clean-outs a part of the monitoring and inspection process to help perform a deeper dive on areas of potential activity. Facilities should have a policy in place to deal with employees who have been found... --- - Published: 2021-05-05 - Modified: 2024-07-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/restaurant-storage-practices-to-prevent-pests/ From dishware, cleaning supplies, dry goods and frozen goods, everything must go somewhere. If not stored properly, these items will attract or hide pests. Storage for a restaurant is typically not a priority, but definitely a necessity. From dishware to cleaning supplies and dry goods to frozen goods, everything must go somewhere. If not stored properly, these items will attract or hide pests. Steps to minimize pest risk via storage can include: In all areas, reduce clutter. Cockroaches and rodents are cryptobiotic, which means they prefer to stay hidden. If we reduce the clutter, we reduce hiding places for them. A good shelving system and storage bins can greatly reduce clutter. Use sealed containers to store dry ingredients in. Flour, pasta, spices, etc. are best preserved in thick plastic or metal containers that easily close and keep pests out. Clear ones allow for a visual inspection of infestation, vital for finding stored product pests, which will typically be in the bottom inch of a bulk bin containing peanuts, flour, spices, cocoa, or other dry goods. Rodents will gnaw through packages, so don’t assume that just because a package is sealed that the food is safe within, transfer it to a sturdy plastic or metal container. Keep food on shelving racks that keep it at least 6 inches off the ground. This allows for cleaning underneath the storage, eliminates a hiding place for pests, and makes it less accessible for pests. Keep shelving racks far enough away from the wall so that the wall can be cleaned, or have movable racks to allow for cleaning under and behind the area. This will also allow your... --- - Published: 2021-02-11 - Modified: 2021-02-11 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-best-practices-for-snack-and-bakery-facilities/ Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery's article, "Pest control best practices for snack and bakery facilities" December 21, 2020 / Media Mention / Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery's article, "Pest control best practices for snack and bakery facilities" Sanitation is crucial for snack and bakery facilities, especially this year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Legacy facilities must be brought up to code, but there are potential problems lurking in new facilities, as well. Pest control maintenance is also key. When it comes to new construction projects, Patricia Hottel, BCE, McCloud Services, advises that pest management considerations should start with site selection, as neighboring facilities and the natural environment can impact future pest problems. “For example, you can predict greater pest problems if the building is next to a recycling center, corn field, or marsh, versus plots in a well-manicured business park. If the ideal building site is not available, the facility should institute the appropriate exterior mitigation procedures to keep the pests from entering the facility. ” Once the site is selected, building a facility with cleaning and pest-proofing in mind is critical, says Hottel. “So often, a structure will be built without considering the ability to effectively clean. If something is difficult to clean, it is more likely not to get cleaned or, at the very least, can add to sanitation costs. Facilities should also consider how they will exclude pests and the cost of maintaining a pest-proof facility based on the construction materials used,” she notes. One common construction material that is... --- - Published: 2021-02-11 - Modified: 2021-02-11 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/warehouse-beetle-identification-and-prevention/ The warehouse beetle is one species that will come in with shipments and enter from the exterior environment. Because it has two potential pathways into a building, it is one of the most common stored product beetles to infest food facilities. The Warehouse Beetle: Identification and Prevention Methods There are several species of beetles that will attack dried plant and animal materials in storage. Many stored product pests arrive on shipments and some can enter from outdoors. The warehouse beetle is one species that will come in with shipments and enter from the exterior environment. Because it has two potential pathways into a building, it is one of the most common stored product beetles to infest food facilities. It is named, warehouse beetle because it commonly infests warehouses and other areas where food is stored. Identification The adults are about 1/8” in length and dark brown in color. They have 4 wavy light colored wavy bands on the wings. The larva, one of the immature stages, can reach ¼” in length and is tapered at each end of the body. They are dark brown in color with alternating cream-colored sections. Damage caused by Warehouse Beetles The warehouse beetle is one of the few stored product pests, which in addition to contaminating food, can be of medical importance. The larvae have numerous hairs on their body. One larva may have over 2,000 hairs. Some of these hairs will be spear or barbed shaped. If the larvae or its shed skins are ingested in the food it is infesting, they may cause intestinal distress. In addition to their medical significance, the larvae are the stage responsible for damaging and contaminating food. It will infest a wide range of grain-based products like flour, candy,... --- - Published: 2020-12-09 - Modified: 2020-12-09 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/rats-and-the-pandemic/ Some parts of the U.S. have seen a surge in rat activity, in part, due to the pandemic. Rats will in turn, increase their foraging distances in response to food shortages. Rats and the Pandemic - What Businesses can do to Prevent an Infestation Some parts of the U. S. have seen a surge in rat activity, in part, due to the pandemic. As restaurants and other businesses close or reduce services, there is less garbage generated by these establishments. Less garbage means less food for exterior rat populations. Rats will in turn, increase their foraging distances in response to food shortages. Neighboring businesses around closed restaurants and bars are apt to see increased rat activity around their buildings. Rats like the Norway rat and roof rat will live in close association with humans. Although they may venture indoors and consume our food, a more common source of nourishment is exterior garbage. What Businesses Can do to Prevent Rats Keep areas around dumpsters and dumpster pads clean Avoid storing items like old equipment outside which may provide rodent harborage. Make sure all doors and vents are pest proof. A rat can enter a building through a crack ½” in size. Keep dock doors and other exterior doors closed while not in use. Keep exterior break areas clean of food waste and empty trash receptacles frequently Trim vegetation and avoid landscaping choices which may provide cover for rats Check incoming shipments for evidence of rat activity and reject shipments where rodent evidence if found. Keep back rooms free from clutter which may prevent proper rodent inspections and control. --- - Published: 2020-10-19 - Modified: 2020-10-19 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/bugs-could-post-a-major-threat-to-your-favorite-whiskey/ A recent study by McCloud Services explaining the importance of assessing and mitigating insect damage in warehouses. Media Mention / Whisky Advocate Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Whisky Advocate's article, "Bugs Could Post a Major Threat to Your Favorite Whiskey" Whiskey warehouses are susceptible to sundry forms of calamity. Battered by the elements, they can collapse, catch fire, be struck by lightning or torn apart by tornadoes. Several warehouse mishaps in 2018 and 2019 prompted the bourbon industry to look into ways to prevent similar disasters from happening in the future. Bourbon warehouses—often called rickhouses or rackhouses—are typically constructed of large wooden support poles, with horizontal storage racks, or ricks, stacked several high, and are sheathed with corrugated tin metal. With age, these buildings grow increasingly vulnerable to damage from severe weather and other threats—including pests. A recent study by pest management company McCloud Services, which works with distillers across Kentucky, explains the importance of assessing and mitigating insect damage in warehouses. “While never proven as the root cause for collapses, should be managed to decrease structural integrity degradation of rickhouses,” the report states, noting that semi-annual inspections “can potentially reduce rickhouse collapses. ” The problem of wood-destroying insects, such as anobiid powderpost beetles, roundheaded borers, and subterranean termites, rarely seems urgent. “None of these insects will cause significant damage overnight,” McCloud technical director Patricia Hottel tells Whisky Advocate. “It takes time for the feeding damage to progress, and each pest group will have certain preferred environmental conditions, which will increase survival and the potential for damage. Humidity, moisture content of the wood, and... --- - Published: 2020-10-15 - Modified: 2020-10-15 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/covid-19-spreads-rodents/ Juxtaposition of business booms and busts exacerbates seasonal issues. Rodent prevention and management amid the pandemic explained. Media Mention / Quality Assurance & Food Safety Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article, "COVID-19 Spreads Rodents" Juxtaposition of business booms and busts exacerbates seasonal issues. The cooling weather of fall and winter customarily brings increased rodent issues as rats and mice seek harborage from worsening conditions outdoors. But all expectations are that those rodent issues will be increased this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the virus spread, foodservice and retail establishments closed down, and people’s behaviors changed, so too did the spread and behaviors of rodents. There seem to be two different extremes when it comes to rodent issues resulting from the pandemic’s impact on business, said McCloud Services Technical Director Patricia Hottel. “Some food facilities have seen a boom in business, and some have seen a decline in business, with temporary or permanent closures. ” As such, she explained: Buildings left vacant can be more prone to rodent and other pest issues, providing undisturbed areas to harbor rodents, potentially impacting their neighbors as well. Those facing increased demand have less downtime for cleaning and maintenance, and decreased cleaning can equate to additional food availability for pests. Increases in outdoor dining and food consumption can increase food availability for rodents in the form of food scraps or garbage. Add to that the juxtaposition of the booms and declines which can further exacerbate rodent issues. “If a facility is in an area where food resources have decreased due to business closures, rodent pressures... --- - Published: 2020-10-07 - Modified: 2020-10-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/rodent-identification-and-prevention/ Rodents have increased in some areas due to the pandemic. As food sources deplete, rodents will seek other sources. Here are some tips to help prevent rodents. October 18th marks the start of Rodent Awareness Week in the U. S. It provides an opportunity to educate the public about rodents and the risk they pose to public health. Rodents can carry a variety of diseases and parasites. Diseases potentially transmitted by rodents include the food borne illness, Salmonella. Rodent activity has increased in some areas due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Restaurant and other business closures can equate to less available food for rodents. As previous food sources deplete, rodents will seek alternate sources. Vacant buildings can also provide undisturbed areas for rodents to harbor and may go undetected for a long period of time. What Can You Do To Prevent Rodents? Keep food spillage to a minimum and clean up promptly. This includes food outside around dumpsters and break areas. Food outside can attract rodents inside. Make sure all doors and other openings are well sealed. This includes front entrance doors, cart doors and dock doors. A mouse can enter a structure through the crack ¼” in height. They can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime. A rat can enter a structure through a hole the size of a quarter or a crack ½” in height. Keep all doors closed while not in use. Inspect incoming shipments, including seasonal items like firewood, pumpkins, and corn stalks. Items like Indian corn are a food source for rodents. Check automatic self-closing doors for proper timing and closure. Doors should not be open any longer than necessary... --- - Published: 2020-09-23 - Modified: 2020-09-23 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-service-reports-5-keys-areas/ Pest control service reports can help you make informed decisions when it comes to your facility’s pest management program. Here are the 5 key areas of a service report to pay close attention to. Pest Control Reports: Understanding 5 Keys Areas Documentation is one of the most critical steps in a proper pest management program. Without thorough documentation your ability to follow and understand how well your current pest program is working is extremely difficult. When a pest management professional (PMP) has performed a service, a service report should be provided. Understanding these reports can help you make informed decisions when it comes to your facility’s pest management. Location and Technician Information This section will list out the service address and billing information for your business. It should also outline the services performed and information on the PMP responsible. This may seem like a basic section on the report, but this is where an outline of services and time associated are listed. Reviewing the duration of time spent can help determine if additional time is needed for proper service. Additional information may include the PMP’s licensing information and signatures. Service Comments The service comments section of a report may contain some of the most important service information. These comments can help alert you to potential pest findings and can report on what is happening within your facility at the time of service. Your PMP should include information regarding what services were completed, any pest findings, and who the PMP communicated with while onsite. These comments should be informative, but concise. Material Application The material applications section is where any pesticide application is detailed out. Important information like material name, quantity, location and application method... --- - Published: 2020-09-22 - Modified: 2020-09-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/managing-pests-during-the-pandemic/ Just as businesses have continued to adapt, so have pests. Restaurateurs should continue taking the steps that help limit threats to food safety, as risks are still present. Media Mention / Retail & Restaurant Facility Business Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Retail & Restaurant Facility Business' article, "Managing pests during the pandemic" Characterizing the effects of the pandemic on restaurant pests can be difficult due to the varied responses across the industry. Coping with COVID-19 challenges has resulted in varying degrees of business innovation, dependent upon the type of facility and geographic location. Reduced hours to complete shutdowns have been a common practice. Just as businesses have continued to adapt, so have pests. Restaurateurs should continue taking the steps that help limit threats to food safety, as risks are still present. Pandemic and Pests Due to shutdowns and reduced hours, pests are more likely to go undetected in facilities. Although shutdowns did not always mean pest management services were reduced, cutbacks to pest management services can compound the situation. Good COVID-19-appropriate practices to help reduce pests include: Cleaning and Sanitation Proper preparation prior to shutdown is essential. Facilities should take proactive steps to leave the restaurant as clean as possible prior to any shutdown, regardless of closing for the night or several days. Inventory Management Food inventories, including non-perishable ingredients, must be managed. The longer non-perishable ingredients, like flour, rice and cereals, remain in inventory, the more likely they are to become infested with stored product pests. Refrigeration can help reduce potential infestation as well. Perishable food products’ shelf life and suitability for long term storage should be made prior to shutting down. Items should... --- - Published: 2020-09-17 - Modified: 2020-09-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/occasional-food-plant-pests-bring-unpredictable-problems/ Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Processing's article, "Occasional Food Plant Pests Bring Unpredictable Problems." August 31, 2020 / Media Mention / Food Processing Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Processing's article "Occasional Food Plant Pests Bring Unpredictable Problems" Certain species are ‘accidental invaders’ that, in a way, are harder to predict and more disruptive than the more common ones. Sometimes drop-in guests can be more annoying than the ones you know are coming. That’s as true for food plants as it is for vacation homes. Pest-control programs are often aimed at eliminating obvious pests, like rats and cockroaches, that pose a constant threat, seasonally if not year-around. But certain kinds of bugs and other critters can invade facilities seemingly at random, at any time. These can be, in some ways, harder to deal with than the species that are constant threats. These kinds of pests are sometimes called “occasional” or “accidental” invaders. They comprise a wide variety of species, including ground beetles, ladybugs, crickets, boxelder bugs, stinkbugs, mites, centipedes, millipedes, earwigs, springtails, sowbugs, pillbugs, clover mites and earwigs. What they all have in common is that, even from their own perspective, they have no business in a food plant; there’s no reason for them to be there and, in most cases, little or nothing for them to survive on. “Accidental invaders are insects and other arthropods that wander into structures without any specific benefit from a survival standpoint,” says Patricia Hottel, technical director at McCloud Services. They get in, in other words, entirely by chance. Weak fliers might literally get pushed... --- - Published: 2020-09-10 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/fall-pest-prevention-tips/ With the cooler temperatures, pests begin to migrate indoors. Now is the time to pest proof to prevent these fall invaders from migrating in. Fall Pests: Migration Indoors and Prevention Tips With the cooler temperatures comes the threat from a group of fall related pests. We call these pests fall invaders and they survive the winter through the protection afforded by structures. They migrate towards buildings in search of a warm resting spot to spend the cold winter. This resting spot may include the wall, ceiling, and attic voids of buildings. When they Migrate Indoors Changes in daylight hours and cooler temperatures can trigger the fall invaders indoor movements. Normally it is only adults, which move indoors. During their winter stay, they do not reproduce or feed. Examples of insects which use this winter survival tactic include cluster flies, multicolored Asian lady beetles, brown marmorated stink bugs and boxelder bugs. A second type of fall invaders arrives in our structures more by accident. These insects may be attracted to building lighting and are tied to exterior environmental conditions. The majority of these are mold feeders which are associated with grain in poor condition. Examples of these beetles include the foreign grain beetle, and hairy fungus beetle. Here are a few highlighted species. Box Elder Bugs Probably the most common of the fall invading insects, this black and red marked bug feeds on box elder and maple trees. It is ½” long as an adult, mostly black in color with red lines marking the wings and the thorax or area behind the head. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug In the eastern and Midwestern parts of the... --- - Published: 2020-09-03 - Modified: 2020-09-03 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/exclusion-for-stored-product-pests/ Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog post on "Exclusion strategies for stored product pests." June 1, 2020 / Media Mention / Pest Management Professional Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog post "Exclusion strategies for stored product pests" Exclusion is the cornerstone of good integrated pest management programs. Modifying environments to make it less hospitable to pests can be more effective than chemical control tools. This is especially important in sensitive environments, such as food production or warehouse facilities. When discussing exclusion strategies with clients, pest management professionals (PMPs) tend to focus on pests that predominantly come from the exterior. However, exclusion strategies can be employed for all pests, especially stored product pests (SPPs). As SPPs live in the food they eat, exclusion tools that minimize food buildup inside facilities effectively minimizes this pest risk. This is particularly true for facilities working with dry ingredients. As food dust settles in the facility, the buildup becomes a conducive condition for SPPs. Through indoor exclusion methods, PMPs can minimize risk by: Sealing cracks and crevices in walls and floors: Apply food-grade sealant in food processing areas to remove the potential for buildup in expansion joints, wall/floor junctions and all equipment. Building material and design: Recommend materials and design with smooth surfaces to prevent material from building up. For example, a corrugated wall allows for build-up both in the wall and in the seams of the wall. Equipment and racking design and installation: In dry processing environments, be cognizant of racking and equipment design as these areas are where... --- - Published: 2020-09-02 - Modified: 2020-09-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/recover-from-a-poor-pest-control-plan/ Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog post "Help clients recover from a poor pest management plan" August 24, 2020 / Media Mention / Pest Management Professional Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog post "Help clients recover from a poor pest management plan" The saying “plan your work and work your plan” strongly applies to pest management. To create and execute a successful pest management plan, it must be appropriate for the specific pest, and the plan must be followed properly. We know that the majority of pest management plan shortcomings are caused by an inaccurate initial risk assessment, misalignment of expectations, changes in the facility that the plan does not account for or adapt to, and not having the right tools or people to implement the plan. When these occur, pests invade and can cause the plan to unravel. Recovering from a poor pest management plan can be a daunting task for both the client and the pest management professional (PMP). Oftentimes, the only way to recover is to execute a new risk assessment. It’s important to remember, this new assessment must be performed by a PMP who knows the food industry, can critically assess the immediate and long-term pest risks, and develop a plan that works toward mitigation. Once you have your expert, follow these steps for a proper site risk assessment: Data dive: Performing a thorough and correct site risk assessment is vital in developing a new, successful pest management plan. When a client is recovering from a poor plan, PMPs must understand how things... --- - Published: 2020-08-05 - Modified: 2020-08-05 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-in-pet-food-facilities/ Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Petfood Industry's article on "Pest control in pet food facilities: Best practices" May 11, 2020 / Media Mention / Petfood Industry Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Petfood Industry's article on "Pest control in pet food facilities: Best practices" Pet food facilities, like all dry food processing facilities, are at risk to nearly every pest you can think of. Specific pest risks will be dependent on what said facilities are manufacturing, how they manufacture it, and their sanitation and structural risks. The highest pest risks “Of all the pest risks, I believe stored product pests pose the most universal risk to pet food facilities,” said Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud Services, an integrated pest management solutions business. “Stored product pests are a group of pests that live in the grain-based food that they eat. They’re ubiquitous in a pet food facility because we typically find product throughout — settled in cracks and crevices, building up in equipment, and forgotten in tall racks. Most pet food facilities are challenged by one or more species of stored product pests. The specific pests will be dependent on the food produced. ” Some top pests to look out for, according to Berry, include Indianmeal moths (which tend to be a universal pest of pet food), warehouse beetles (commonly associated with dry cat and dog food) and rice weevils (a major pest when the ingredients include whole kernels or rice). “After stored product pests, rodents are the most common pest,” said Berry. “A well-sealed building and thorough sanitation can reduce... --- - Published: 2020-08-05 - Modified: 2025-09-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-bird-management-strategies/ McCloud Services shares bird management strategies with Facility Management July 1, 2020 / Media Mention / Facility Management Pest Bird Management Strategies There are approximately 10,000 species of birds on Earth, and most rarely interact with urban structures. Overall, birds are considered beneficial species for numerous reasons including insect consumption, plant pollination and seed spreading, to name a few. Yet, there are some species of birds that are considered pests. This group of birds can adulterate food products, damage buildings with fecal deposits, and pose public health safety issues under the right conditions. Retail stores, restaurants, grocery stores, food distribution centers and food plants can be negatively impacted by pest birds and the detritus they leave behind. Feathers, feces, nesting materials, ectoparasites and pathogenic microbes associated with these pest birds establish them as a notable pest, and their presence should not be tolerated. Pest Bird Species House sparrows (Passer domesticus), European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica) were introduced into the United States and are not protected by federal laws. They are considered invasive species and can be removed without filing for depredation permits. However, some states or local governments may have more stringent bird depredation guidelines. It is prudent to review bird management programs with local authorities prior to developing a strategy to remove or eliminate these species. Blackbirds (including grackles and cowbirds), woodpeckers, Canada geese, gulls (ring-billed and herring), cliff swallows and American crows are also frequently cited as pest birds. It is important to note that these birds are protected by the Migratory... --- - Published: 2020-08-04 - Modified: 2020-08-06 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/stinging-insects-prevention/ Stinging insects, such as bees and wasps, become pests as their natural food sources like nectar of flowers decline. Here is a guide for common stinging insects and control methods. Identification and Prevention Tips to Control Stinging Insect Populations Summer is the time when the colonies of stinging insects like bees and wasps are at their peak. As natural food sources like the nectar of flowers decline, these insects may become pests as they search for nectar, pollen, and prey alternatives. Common Stinging Insects Control Methods for Stinging Insects Empty exterior trash receptacles frequently and use trash cans with self-closing lids. Clean up exterior food spills promptly and regularly clean around dumpsters and dumpster pads to reduce available food. Report any nests or activity observed around the building to your pest management professional. Keep doors closed when not in use, screen any doors, vents or windows used for ventilation to help prevent pest entry. Pest proof doors to exclude insects. Check timing mechanisms on automatic doors to make sure they close in a timely manner. --- - Published: 2020-07-01 - Modified: 2020-07-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/filth-fly-prevention-exclusion-and-sanitation-tips/ Warm temperatures and a good food source are ideal conditions for filth flies to populate rapidly. Here are some ways to help minimize their development. Summer is the peak season for filth fly activity Warm temperatures create ideal conditions for exterior fly populations to expand exponentially When the right food source is plentiful and temperatures are ideal, filth flies can go from egg to adult in as little as 7 days. Each filth fly female can produce hundreds of offspring. The house fly female can produce 500 eggs in her lifetime. Combine a short life cycle with optimal conditions, you get a lot of flies by the end of summer. Why the concern? Filth flies are often associated with poor sanitation. Filth flies harbor and can transmit many diseases including the food borne illness, Salmonella. House flies are known to carry over 100 different diseases. They breed in filth like manure and garbage and can carry pathogens from the filth to our food. How to Prevent Filth Fly Issues The larger filth flies are typically developing outdoors and coming indoors. The goal should be to reduce exterior developmental sites and practice fly exclusion. Exclusion Methods to Reduce Filth Flies Install and maintain tight fitting screens on vents. Keep all receiving doors closed when not in use. Make sure doors are fly proof when closed with no gaps or missing seals. Keep doors to garbage chutes closed when not in use. Chutes should be free of openings to the exterior and connect to dumpsters as tightly as possible. Check timing mechanisms on self-closing doors. Make sure when doors are closed, they are free of fly entry... --- - Published: 2020-06-23 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/supply-chain-pest-control/ Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article on "Supply Chain Pest Control." June 16, 2020 / Media Mention / Quality Assurance Supply Chain Pest Control - Eliminating the Impact of COVID-19 Pest Issues Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article "Supply Chain Pest Control" With ingredient and supply chains disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, many food manufacturers that continued operations had to find alternate providers for basic goods on short notice with little assessment. With even FDA postponing foreign and routine facility inspections, there is a likelihood that some less direct food safety parameters, such as pest control, fell through the cracks and were given less consideration — both along supply chains and within the facility itself. Given the potential long-term consequences of that, what impacts has the pandemic had on pest presence and control? What should food processors and manufacturers require of suppliers — and assess now if they hadn’t before? And what will they need to do to deal with any pandemic-induced pest issues? Following are key points on each from pest management experts. HOW HAS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IMPACTED PEST PRESENCE OR CONTROL? Provider restrictions. Many processors have reduced visitor entry. Although regular service visits may be allowed, there has been some mandated reduction in technical and quality visits, and those who are allowed often have their temperatures taken and health checked. A greater emphasis on examining of data available through electronic documentation enabled some remote quality oversight where systems were implemented, and electronic trap monitors equipped with sensors or cameras enabled the collection of... --- - Published: 2020-06-04 - Modified: 2020-06-08 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/small-fly-development-sites/ Small fly species that will reproduce in structures include small fruit flies, Phorid flies and Drain flies. Here is a list of common small fly development sites and control methods to prevent an infestation. Small Fly Development Sites and Preventing an Infestation Small fly populations increase in the summer months. They may enter from the exterior through an open dock door or arrive on incoming shipments like fruits and vegetables. Once indoors, they will seek suitable sites and laden with the right mix of organic material to lay their eggs. All the species listed below feed on organic matter but in different stages of decay. The level of decay will dictate which fly species will develop in that material. Removal of the food source is key to small fly control. There are several species of small flies that will reproduce inside structures. These flies include: Small fruit flies (vinegar flies), Phorid flies and Drain flies. Fly Species Development Site Small Fruit Fly Pop and soda dispensers including beverage tray drains and drain lines Over-ripening fruits and vegetables. Food residue underneath trash can liners Damaged or leaking food containers like soda syrup cartons Phorid Flies and Dark-eyed Fruit Flies Floor drains which have not been kept cleaned Deterioration in floors where moist organic material has accumulated Exterior dumpsters Interior and exterior trash receptacles which are not cleaned and maintained Mop sinks which are not properly cleaned Mops and cleaning rags which are not cleaned and stored properly Floor scrubbers which are not properly emptied and cleaned Drain Flies Floor drains which are not routinely cleaned, and water trap levels in floor drains not maintained Condensate lines which are not cleaned Condensate and drip trays which... --- - Published: 2020-06-02 - Modified: 2020-06-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-technology-food-industry/ Technology is being deployed for pest detection methods and has the power to make dramatic changes in the protection of food from pests. May 27, 2020 / Media Mention / Food Logistics Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Logistic's article on "Pest Management Trends and Technology for the Food Warehousing Industry" The medical industry has opened a view to the public into the remarkable work and capabilities of medical technology during the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis. Although the technological accomplishments within the pest management industry pale in comparison to these medical achievements, there is a transformation occurring. The food and beverage industry does not have the same level of sophistication as its high-tech medical counterparts, but the technology has the power to make dramatic changes in the protection of food from pests. Technology is being deployed primarily in the form of new pest detection methods, with benefits in problem solving, worker safety and an increase in pest monitoring capabilities. In addition, the industry is learning more about pest behavior and the effectiveness of control tools. Some examples of the novel technology being deployed include the use of pest detecting sensors and cameras. Technology and Detection Cameras, infrared sensors and motion sensors are being used to detect a variety of pests. While rodents were the first pest group targeted, stored products pests, flying insects and even bed bugs can be monitored via electronic monitoring devices today. Here at McCloud Services, we have tested a variety of different types of sensors and cameras for remote and on-site monitoring in rodent management programs. Some of the sensors will alert based on the rodent... --- - Published: 2020-05-12 - Modified: 2020-05-14 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-bird-activity/ Bird activity can be extremely harmful around the exterior of a facility. Follow these tips to prevent birds around the exterior of the facility. Preventing Bird Activity Around the Exterior of a Facility The three main pest bird species in America are all invasive species. They were brought to the U. S. with good intentions but have caused more damage than good instead. These pest birds include the feral pigeon, the European starling and the house sparrow. Problems associated with pest birds: Spreading of diseases like salmonella which can transfer to food and food contact surfaces. Unsightly droppings that can cause slip hazards on sidewalks and other areas. Nesting material which can catch fire. Damage to products and materials within the facility and storage areas which must be discarded. Birds can damage structures through their droppings. Because of their acidic nature, metal can become corroded. Follow these Tips to Prevent Birds Around the Exterior of the Facility Clean up any food spills immediately around dumpsters, employee exterior break areas and small waste receptacles. Use waste receptacles with self-closing lids that help prevent pest entry. Empty garbage frequently. Avoid storing racks and pallets outside, which may provide harborage for birds. Pest proof all doors and other openings. Check timing mechanisms on automatic doors. These doors should close approximately 6 seconds after the person enters the building and clears the sensor. Make sure doors seal when they close. Keep dock doors and personnel doors closed when not in use. Check bumper seals around dock doors for a good seal when a trailer is backed up to the door. Report any bird activity on signs, around dock... --- - Published: 2020-05-05 - Modified: 2020-05-05 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-create-a-winning-pest-management-program/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to ProFood World's article "How to Create a Winning Integrated Pest Management Program" April 14, 2020 / Media Mention / ProFood World Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to ProFood World's article "How to Create a Winning Integrated Pest Management Program" Given consumer demands for high-quality products and stringent food safety regulations, today’s food and beverage manufacturers are more vigilant than ever about preventing pests from contaminating their products. Gone are the days of processors spraying pesticides and fumigants every few weeks and placing traps throughout the plant. Instead, they are developing and implementing integrated pest management (IPM) programs that take a proactive, comprehensive and preventive approach to keep pest infestations at bay. According to pest management experts, IPM programs have proven to be successful because they treat pest control as an ongoing preventive process rather than reacting to pest problems as single isolated incidents. To create a customized, strategic IPM plan, pest technicians work with processors to regularly assess each plant’s unique needs and site-specific pest risks. With that information, they can develop an IPM program that uses a variety of tools to address the underlying causes of those risks for pest infestation, thereby drastically reducing or eliminating pest problems in a sustainable, long-term way. “Ultimately to solve a pest problem, you need to get to the root cause,” according to Pat Hottel, BCE, technical director at South Elgin, Ill. -based McCloud Services. “You can address the immediate infestation and take care of the current problems, but if you don’t get to the root cause of why it happened, you risk... --- - Published: 2020-05-05 - Modified: 2020-05-05 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/spring-start-ups-predicting-pest-pressures/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog on "Spring start-ups: Predicting pest pressures" April 27, 2020 / Media Mention / Pest Management Professional Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Pest Management Professional's PestTalk blog on "Spring start-ups: Predicting pest pressures" Spring is a time for new beginnings, and that includes a fresh start for insect pest populations. Social insects like bees, wasps and termites have been overwintering as single fertilized queens or as colonies with reduced activity. Whether new nests are being initiated or there is a colony revitalization, springtime means these insects are ready to begin foraging and reproducing. Foraging and nest expansion can impact our clients. Pest management professionals (PMPs) should embrace strategies to interrupt nature’s expansion plan and institute proactive control. Now is the best time to initiate management before populations increase in size and are more difficult to manage. This principle is true for a variety of pests, from ants to rodents to stored product pests. Before pest populations rebound and establish, PMPs should begin control efforts. Timing can mean everything when it comes to reducing client callbacks and complaints. Consider the following: Knowing the history of a client’s past pest pressures will help in determining what pests might be reappearing this spring, and help direct an inspection. Commercial facilities should have those historical records available. In absence of formal documentation, the client can be surveyed for that information — but regardless, a thorough inspection will be required. A variety of tools can be useful during an inspection, including bait cards. This tool is often underutilized when... --- - Published: 2020-04-22 - Modified: 2020-04-22 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/conquering-the-challenges-of-flies/ Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article "Conquering the Challenges of Flies" April 3, 2020 / Media Mention / Quality Assurance Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to Quality Assurance's article "Conquering the Challenges of Flies" Why Flies Are a Problem Flies are often considered to be just a nuisance pest, but they are actually vectors of disease and carry risk in food facilities. Illustrating this, McCloud Services Training Manager and Entomologist Anna Berry related the example of a food facility which recently had a Listeria outbreak — for which small flies were discovered to have been the cause. The food facility’s drains had organic material in which both Listeria bacteria and small flies were thriving. “The flies picked up bacteria on their body and transferred it to the equipment and food surfaces, causing food to come into contact with Listeria and creating an outbreak,” Berry explained. Because small flies typically breed indoors, their presence indicates a sanitation concern that has led to them being in the facility, Berry said. “They’re typically more challenging to control as we need to find that breeding site and eliminate it. ” On the other hand, large “filth” flies, such as house flies, typically breed outdoors, she said. So they “are typically indicative of doors/windows being left open or unsealed gaps or holes in the facility. ” Large flies also can be significant disease vectors in food facilities. As Western Pest Services Entomologist and Manager of Innovations & Continuous Improvements Shannon Sked explained, the body of the house fly is covered with hairs... --- - Published: 2020-04-14 - Modified: 2020-04-16 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/minimizing-pest-attractions-outdoors/ Making the exterior less desirable to pests can mean fewer pests numbers around the exterior and fewer pests trying to make their way indoors. Here are some ways you can minimize pest attractions on the exterior and keep your business pest free. Minimizing Pest Attractions Outdoors – Simple Ways to Make Your Business Less Inviting to Pests Making the exterior less desirable to pests can mean fewer pests numbers around the exterior and fewer pests trying to make their way indoors. To keep pests from migrating indoors, it’s important to consider the exterior of your facility and ensure it is as unattractive and uninhabitable to pests as possible. Because we cannot always keep all doors closed at all times, pests will still have the opportunity to enter a building when doors are opened for guests and deliveries. Here are some ways you can minimize pest attractions on the exterior and keep your business pest free. Reduce Opportunities for Food, Water and Shelter All pests need food, water and shelter for survival. Included in the shelter category are preferred temperatures. Pests like insects are cold blooded and cannot regulate their body temperature. They will seek warmer and cooler temperatures as appropriate to maintain a favorable body temperature. This means warmth in the cold winters and cooler air on a hot summer day. Flies, rodents and other pests will seek buildings for protection and comfort. Food and garbage odors, water and favorable indoor temperatures can all provide attractants for pests. Pest proofing to seal the structure helps reduce air leaks which may signal to pests a more favorable temperature indoors. Keeping lids closed on dumpsters and trash receptacles is important for reducing access and odor plumes from these areas. Water leaks and proper drainage... --- - Published: 2020-03-18 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/indianmeal-moth-bird-seed/ The Indianmeal moth is a common of grain-based foods and animal feed. Here are some ways to identify and prevent an infestation. Indianmeal Moth Infestations in Bird Seed The Indianmeal moth is a common pest of grain-based foods and animal feed. Bird seed and products containing bird seed can be particularly attractive to this pest. Products like bird seed go through minimal processing and are not cooked. There are fewer opportunities to kill the pest through heat or mechanical control. Identification The Indianmeal moth adult is a relatively small moth with bi-colored wings. Adults may be seen flying near infested products or you may observe the immature stage, called larva, inside or around infested products. The larva is typically off white in color with a brown head. It can reach lengths of ½ inch when fully grown. The last tell-tale sign is the pupal stage. The pupal stage is the developmental stage prior to adult. It is wrapped in webbing. Pupa are often found in the seams or folds of boxes and bags. Other common areas to find pupa include shelf peg boards and crevices around shelving. 4 Stages of Development It can complete development in as short as 27 days when conditions are favorable. What can you do? Notify your pest management professional if you see or suspect an Indianmeal moth infestation. Review the pest management service reports with your pest control provider at the end of each service. Follow up on recommendations listed on the report. Check immediately any incoming products for signs of the different Indianmeal moth stages and webbing. Reject any infested shipments. Notify the shipper. Use a... --- - Published: 2020-03-10 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/21st-century-pest-control/ Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist, shares insights on innovations in the pest management industry in PET Food Processing March 2020 / Media Mention / PET Food Processing Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist for McCloud, contributes to PET Food Processing's article "21st Century Pest Control" The latest technological advancements helping pet food operators better manage pest control. One of the biggest and most exciting trends in the pest management industry today is embracing progressive technologies. Changes in FSMA, accessible technologies, lower thresholds and sophisticated clients have all forced the pest management industry to really explore and develop various innovations. Anna Berry, training manager and entomologist at McCloud, notes remote monitoring is quickly becoming accepted as a commercial necessity as clients and industry professionals recognize the many benefits of it, including increased safety, efficiency, accessibility, humane capital and more. She explains that many areas that processors would like to monitor are regularly inaccessible either due to facility restrictions or safety concerns, so reducing the number of visits needed to these areas to check traps is a huge safety win. “These devices also increase our efficiency. By spending less time checking traps without activity, we can spend more time inspecting for the source of the problem,” Berry says. “For example, we have a very modern food processing facility that has extensive GMPs in place before entry in each room. These rooms are incredibly well-sealed, they rarely have any type of pest issue. But monitoring is a necessity, and so multi-catch traps were placed where appropriate in the interior. ” Before remote monitoring, Berry mentioned that McCloud’s service specialists would spend... --- - Published: 2020-03-10 - Modified: 2020-03-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/2020-pest-invasion-seminar/ McCloud extends Annual Pest Invasion Seminar into two events and two days and will focus on pest management for the modern world. March 4, 2020 / Press Release McCloud Services 21st Annual Pest Invasion Seminar Extended into Two Events and Two Days The 2020 seminar will be held in Hershey, Pennsylvania on May 20-21, 2020 and Oak Brook, Illinois on June 18-19, 2020 McCloud Services, a leading integrated pest management solutions company, today announced that its 21st Annual Pest Invasion Seminar has expanded to two locations and two days in 2020. The seminars will be held May 20-21, 2020 at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pennsylvania and June 18-19, 2020 at the Hilton Chicago Oak Brook in Oak Brook, Illinois. Both seminars will focus on pest management for the modern world. “For over 20 years, Pest Invasion has shared its insights to those in the Chicago area,” said Mahi Principio, marketing manager at McCloud Services. “We are thrilled to not only expand this popular event into Hershey, Pennsylvania, but add an additional day to the seminar. By expanding the event length and offering a new location, more food manufacturers, pest management professionals and others dedicated to food safety will have the opportunity to learn about the industry’s trends and critical issues from experts in the field. Attendees will leave the seminar with the tools and knowledge they need to be better prepared for the future. ” Bringing together professionals from the food, pest management and environmental health industries, McCloud Services’ Annual Seminar provides an immersive educational experience with industry updates, networking opportunities and informational exchanges for the entire food supply chain of... --- - Published: 2020-02-07 - Modified: 2020-02-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/storage-practices-to-prevent-pests/ Adhering to good storage practices can help prevent a variety of pests. Utilize these good storage practices to help in the fight against pests. Good Storage Practices to Prevent Pests Adhering to good storage practices can help prevent a variety of pests including rodents and stored product insects. The length of time a product remains in storage can impact the development of pests in your facility. Food for pests can be due to spills and poor inventory management. Utilize these good storage practices to help in the fight against pests. Tips for Good Storage Practices Use the first in/ first out system of stock rotation (FIFO). The longer a product remains in storage, the more likely it is to become infested. Make sure that older inventory is used first to avoid encouraging pests like Indianmeal moths and flour beetles. Check for expired product and expedite its removal. Inspect incoming shipments. Products can arrive with rodents and insects on them. Before placing new shipments into inventory, check for pest activity. Do not accept product if pest activity is observed. Maintain a sanitation aisle along exterior perimeter walls. Storage space is at a premium and it may be difficult to maintain a space along exterior walls. However, it is important to inspect and trap these areas. Use of wheeled carts can help facilitate inspection where a permanent sanitation aisle is not feasible. Keep areas free of spillage. Clean areas regularly to remove spillage. Facility staff should be instructed to clean spilled product immediately when broken bags and containers are observed. This includes product that may have sifted underneath shelves and behind pallets. The average development time... --- - Published: 2020-02-04 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/how-to-keep-pests-out-of-your-manufacturing-facility/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Processing's article "How to Keep Pests Out of Your Manufacturing Facility" January 29, 2020 / Media Mention / Food Processing Magazine Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Processing's article "How to Keep Pests Out of Your Manufacturing Facility" Nobody wants bugs, rodents and other pests in their plants. But somehow they get in. Finding out the how in that “somehow” is a good first step toward keeping them out. A big building like a food or beverage plant will inevitably have gaps, breaches, channels and other pathways of ingress – some intentional and necessary, some not – that can admit pests. And they don’t need much room. Even rats and mice can get through any space their skulls fit through – and that’s only 12mm and 6mm, respectively. In fact, they prefer tight spaces that provide good cover from predators. Patricia Hottel, technical director at McCloud Services, says floor drains are her No. 1 overlooked source of entry, especially for cockroaches and drain flies. She says proper drain design can prevent pest problems. “Maintaining drain integrity can help reduce the potential for activity,” Hottel says. “Proper drain design is also important where drains are accessible for cleaning and maintenance. Grates should be removable and baskets should be used to help capture solids and facilitate cleaning. ” Hottel also discusses the need for traps in pest management, especially as it relates to rodents. "Traps, an integral part of most pest control programs, can furnish clues as to where pests are getting in. Some of the rodenticide baits are specially... --- - Published: 2020-02-04 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/anna-berry-wins-fifth-annual-walter-award/ McCloud Service's annual award recognizes employees who showcase exceptional character and demonstrate a priority on innovation, teamwork and leadership. February 3, 2020 / Press Release McCloud Services Announces Anna Berry as the Fifth Annual Walter Award Recipient McCloud Services is thrilled to announce that Training Manager and Entomologist Anna Berry, MS, BCE, has been named the company’s fifth Walter Award recipient. This annual award recognizes employees who showcase exceptional character and demonstrate a priority on innovation, teamwork and leadership. From numerous company-wide nominations, Berry was selected as this year’s Walter Award recipient for her unparalleled industry knowledge, dedication to training McCloud service specialists and her commitment to the company. Through her McCloud committee calls, webinars and monthly training meetings, Berry stays organized and develops programming to keep attendees engaged and interested. This allows McCloud’s training programs to excel and offer valuable research, skills and insights to specialists so they can stay up to date on the latest pest management trends. Berry received two nominations from her colleagues for this award, one from Recruiter Julie LeSueur and a nomination from Michael Rector, regional technical manager. Both noted her integrity, respect for others, and priority to quality and safety. “Anna is an excellent trainer for our training Academies. I was able to see for myself the commitment Anna devotes to her work,” said LeSueur. Rector echoed Berry’s devotion to McCloud and training. “Anna’s contribution and ability to motivate people is second to none. She has helped so many at McCloud grow, me included. Anna is always willing to go above and beyond if it is for the better good of employees... --- - Published: 2020-01-27 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/digital-rodent-monitoring-the-next-big-game-changer/ Pat Hottel, technical director, shares insights on rodent remote monitoring and its impact on the industry. January 22, 2020 / Media Mention / Pest Control Technology Magazine Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Pest Control Technology's article "Digital Rodent Monitoring: The Next Big Game-Changer? " The pest control marketplace is in the midst of big changes. As we speak, a variety of data-driven rodent monitoring systems that use sensors, wireless networks and apps are being developed. The pest control marketplace is in the midst of big changes. As we speak, a variety of data-driven rodent monitoring systems that use sensors, wireless networks and apps are being developed for the U. S. and Canadian markets. This is the Internet of Things’ first foray into the pest management industry but probably not the last as developers also aim to reinvent bird and insect control with this technology. Pat Hottel, technical director for McCloud, shared her insights from testing two remote monitoring systems. "Having real-time data lets PMPs analyze what’s happening simultaneously at the client facility, such as product deliveries and specific employee practices, to determine the cause of rodent problems," said Hottel. Data directs technicians where to focus their time before arriving at the customer facility, helps PMPs schedule service visits and order job materials, and easily can be turned into trend reports and documentation for clients. But many say the technology won’t replace an inspection from a technician. "The technology is still evolving and the pest management industry is learning how to most effectively use it," added Hottel. Read the Full Article Here --- - Published: 2019-12-16 - Modified: 2019-12-16 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/companies-employ-pest-prevention-to-keep-snack-and-bakery-facilities-safe-and-sanitary/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery Magazine and shares recommendations on how facilities can stay pest-free December 11, 2019 / Media Mention /Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery Magazine Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery's article "Companies employ pest prevention to keep snack and bakery facilities safe and sanitary" Pest prevention is extremely important for snack and bakery facilities—any and all pests that get into product then make that product unusable, and can cost thousands in product recalls. Pat Hottel, technical director at pest management company McCloud Services, gives snack and bakery facility managers the top pests they need to watch out for in their food plants. These pests can range from different types of beetles to rodents. However, she shares that the pests plaguing a facility are dependent on what products the company is making and the environment they are in. Because of this, Hottel provides insights on the types of preventative measures snack and bakery facilities need to make in order to remain pest-free. Read the Full Article Here --- - Published: 2019-12-16 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-pests-in-food-handling-and-storage-facilities/ Dan Collins, regional technical director at McCloud, shares tips on what food manufacturers need to know to keep their facilities pest-free with Food Safety Strategies December 13, 2019 / Media Mention /Food Safety Strategies Dan Collins, regional technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Safety Strategy's article "Preventing pests in food handling, packing, processing and storage facilities" Pest prevention is an important part of food safety. If you have pests that get into your product, the product is obviously then unusable, and the recall alone can leave your business with a bad reputation. Dan Collins shares what food manufacturers need to know to keep their facilities pest-free. This includes the basics like every pest requires food, water and shelter in order to survive and subsequently infect structures. "Personnel at each facility type must be cognizant of the pest types that could severely impact their operations,” he adds. Dan also notes that pest prevention starts on the exterior. "Flowering and fruiting plants should be avoided as should creeping plants such as arborvitae. Mulch beds should be avoided at all costs at any facility type as they are highly conducive to pest threats such as rodents, termites and ants. " He even mentions the importance of selecting exterior lighting that isn't attractive to insects and the building materials used when constructing food-grade facilities. But in the end, monthly self-inspections focused on sanitation, personnel practices, structural integrity, equipment design and so on can proactively identify and eliminate conditions conducive to pest activity to ensure a pest-free environment. --- - Published: 2019-11-27 - Modified: 2019-12-16 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-prevention-tips-sawtoothed-grain-beetle/ The sawtoothed grain beetle can infest a variety of stored products from grain-based foods, to products containing chocolate & nuts. The sawtoothed grain beetle, is a small, dark brown beetle which can infest a variety of stored products from grain-based foods, to products containing chocolate and nuts. They may also be associated with bird seed and pet food. Their flat bodies allow them to penetrate different types of packaging and cracks and crevices. They can differentiate from other stored product pest beetles by the 6 “teeth” on the sides of the body behind the head. Their name is derived from this saw-like characteristic. Tips for finding and preventing problems with the sawtoothed grain beetle are as follows: Use first in, first out in system of stock rotation to help prevent problems with this stored product pest. Although they will feed on a variety of materials, products which have been in inventory for longer periods of time are more susceptible. Keep areas clean and free or product accumulations. Check shelves, warehouse floor/wall junctures for food spills and beetle activity. It doesn’t take a lot of food to support these small beetles. Even small product spills in the cracks of shelving can provide enough food to support these beetles. Because of the narrow, flat bodies, the adults can squeeze into the tiniest cracks and crevices and this can be inside sealed, packaged foods. They may be found trapped in shrink wrap of palleted product. Use this as a key to locating this insect on stored products in storage areas and incoming shipments. --- - Published: 2019-11-11 - Modified: 2019-11-11 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/integrated-pest-management-for-food-processing-facilities/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, shares insights on integrated pest food management with Refrigerated & Frozen Foods Magazine November 5, 2019 / Media Mention / Refrigerated & Frozen Foods Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, shares insights on integrated pest food management with Refrigerated & Frozen Foods Integrated pest management (IPM) is a strategy by the structural pest management industry, from agricultural pest management principles, over 40 years ago. The original stimulus for IPM was to provide a solution for pesticide resistance issues. Over the years, it has done this by reducing the amount of pesticide use while also increasing the overall efficacy and long-term control of pest problems. In IPM’s basic form, the system establishes thresholds for pests with corresponding control actions for each pest level. These actions include multi-pronged approaches, beyond the use of pesticides, to enhance pest control. Initially, the IPM emphasis was reactionary. Once a pest reached a certain threshold, it was met with a controlled response. Today, there is a greater emphasis on proactive pest prevention. This allows a well-functioning program to focus on the integration of multiple control tools to create a prominent role for pest prevention. Pat Hottel, technical director at McCloud Services, goes into detail on the steps a food facility should make in establishing a pest management program. Read the Full Article Here --- - Published: 2019-10-15 - Modified: 2024-06-07 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/food-processing-good-pest-control/ Pests often leave trails. Droppings, sebum stains, dead insects and various other unpleasant markers serve as proof that they are there. There’s another type of trail they should leave, with human help: a paper one. Better still, a digital one. August 23, 2019 / Media Mention / Food Processing Magazine McCloud’s Pest Invasion Seminar featured in Food Processing’s article “Good Pest Control Requires Good Records” Don’t fudge the record Pests often leave trails. Droppings, sebum stains, dead insects and various other unpleasant markers serve as proof that they are there (and often, clues as to how they got there and how to stop them). There’s another type of trail they should leave, with human help: a paper one. Better still, a digital one. It occasionally happens that, when a pest problem is detected, a plant manager may be tempted not to enter it into the pest management record to avoid “leaving a paper trail. ” Speakers at McCloud’s Pest Invasion Seminar shared advise on how to work with a pest management provider to ensure proper pest control documentation. Read the Full Article Here --- - Published: 2019-10-15 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/food-engineering-pest-food-mfg/ Dan Collins shares just how close modern pet food plants and human food plants actually are. September 17, 2019 / Media Mention / Food Engineering Magazine Dan Collins, regional technical director at McCloud, contributes to Food Engineering’s article “Complying with FSMA for Pet Food Manufacturing” Pet food equipment/process design follow human food Bad news first: If you make pet food, have an older facility and have been putting off examining your operation in light of FSMA, rushing to comply with the new food safety rules for animal foods is probably proving to be a challenge. Good news: If you have a newer pet food facility and/or have been evaluating your entire process and doing a gap analysis, complying with FSMA probably isn’t so onerous. With proper due diligence, compliance might even be a no-brainer. For those who are lagging a little behind on compliance and haven’t yet had an FDA audit, there is more good news. Because most architects, engineers, system integrators (SIs) and machine/equipment builders have had a lot of experience in designing buildings, equipment and process instrumentation to comply with FSMA for human food, they’ve already built up a wealth of knowledge and experience that easily carries over into pet food manufacturing applications. And, they stand ready to help. Dan Collins shares just how close modern pet food plants and human food plants actually are. He also touches on the one design issue that sometimes crops up from an insect vulnerability and ease-of-cleaning perspective relates to equipment design. For example, large equipment such as dryers should be elevated at least 24 inches above the... --- - Published: 2019-10-15 - Modified: 2019-10-15 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/no-pests-allowed/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Engineering's article "Food processors must be proactive in sanitary and hygienic design" October 14, 2019 / Media Mention / Food Engineering Magazine Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Food Engineering's article "Food processors must be proactive in sanitary and hygienic design" No Pests Allowed Sanitary design means looking at the entire structure, inside and outside. When talking with Food Engineering, Patricia Hottel, technical director at McCloud Services, shared that sanitary design is critical in achieving the food safety element of pest prevention. “Well designed and maintained food facility structures and food processing equipment can help prevent the establishment of pests in a facility. It will help in excluding pests and reducing conditions beneficial to their survival,” she said. Challenges for Pest Management Companies She also discussed the challenges for pest management companies helping their customers with sanitary design principles. For instance, Pat shared that the challenges can vary depending on the type of processing being performed. However, some of the biggest challenges can occur when a building is converted to a food production facility when it was not designed initially for food production. “It tends to lead to more issues for this reason,” she explained. “Retrofitting a building can be difficult with issues like general wall construction and the use of hollow block walls providing areas for pest harborage. Similarly, corrugated metal walls can be particularly difficult to pest-proof and may become difficult to clean due to pest proofing efforts of these walls. We look for the difficult-to-clean areas in inspecting for pests. ” She said the wrong construction materials... --- - Published: 2019-09-13 - Modified: 2019-10-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/hotel-management-fb/ Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Hotel Management's article "F&B venues present unique pest challenges" September 11, 2019 / Media Mention / Hotel Management Magazine Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud, contributes to Hotel Management's article "F&B venues present unique pest challenges" Keeping Pests Out The easiest way to prevent pests from becoming a problem at your hotel is to stop them from ever entering the building. While hotels may have a hard time screening every guest for bedbugs to prevent those classic pests from entering the property, hoteliers have several avenues when it comes to excluding food-and-beverage pests. Pat Hottel, technical director at pest-management company McCloud Services, thinks the importance of pest proofing often is overlooked. In addition to actions like closing doors and educating staff, she said hotels can consider inspecting incoming products to ensure they’re not arriving at the hotel with pests inside. Hottel also recommended monitoring another frequent landing area for pests: break and locker rooms. “The area where a German cockroach problem begins is often where the employees bring their purses and their backpacks and their coats from home,” she said. Should employees have a pest problem at home, she said it is important they stay vigilant and ensure they’re not carrying any unwanted visitors into the property. Read the Full Article Here --- - Published: 2019-09-04 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/common-pest-found-in-food-plants/ Here are some of the common pests found in hotels and tips on how to protect your company's image and reputation GERMAN COCKROACH German cockroaches can be particularly common in wet processing plants in areas where there is moisture and heat. Prevention Tips for German Cockroaches Inspect incoming shipments to prevent introductions of the pest into the facility. Remember that German cockroaches can be introduced by employees. Have a dedicated area for employees to keep personal belongings and monitor the area for pests like the German cockroach. Seal cracks and crevices to reduce shelter. The less available harborage, the fewer cockroaches. However, if you can’t effectively seal them out of an area, keep the area open and allow for easy inspection and treatment. Minimize the use of corrugated cardboard for long term storage of items. German cockroaches like the corrugations and folds that a cardboard box provides. Cardboard is not cleanable. It is better to use clear plastic totes or bins with lids. The clear plastic will allow you to see inside and the lid and help prevent pest access. Make sure leaks are repaired promptly. Reducing moisture and water can be helpful in reducing their ability to survive. Reduce clutter. Clutter makes it difficult to inspect areas for pests like cockroaches. STORED PRODUCT PESTS Stored Product Pests can enter a plant from the exterior, be introduced in incoming shipments, or can breed in stored food or food spills and accumulations inside the plant. Most of the stored product pests are either beetles or moths. Prevention Tips for Stored Product Pests Use the first in, first out system of stock rotation.... --- - Published: 2019-08-28 - Modified: 2019-10-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/2019-pest-invasion-seminar-recap/ McCloud Services’ 2019 Pest Invasion Focuses on How to Develop a Successful Integrated Pest Management Program. Over 150 attendees gathered June 27 at this premier food safety seminar July 26, 2019 / Press Release McCloud Services’ 2019 Pest Invasion Focuses on How to Develop a Successful Integrated Pest Management Program Over 150 attendees gathered June 27 at this premier food safety seminar McCloud Services, a leading pest management company headquartered in South Elgin, Ill. , hosted its annual Pest Invasion premier food industry pest management seminar on June 27, 2019 at the Oak Brook Hilton Conference Center in Oak Brook, Ill. The seminar was attended by more than 150 pest management, environmental health, and food safety professionals, and featured a variety of top speakers. This year’s agenda was designed to include all the elements required in building and maintaining a successful integrated pest management (IPM) program. As one of the few pest management seminars with a focus entirely on the food industry, McCloud Services announced some key takeaways from the event. The central theme of Pest Invasion 2019 revolved around food safety and developing and auditing an IPM program. Industry experts presented information on building an IPM program as well as auditing and measuring the program’s results. Speakers also shared the pest threats food facilities are most likely to encounter along with inspection and exclusion tips. At the end of the seminar, attendees learned about the newest pest control technologies in order to more efficiently manage pests throughout their facilities. Invited speakers included: Scott Broaddus of Bayer Digital Pest Management; Dan Collins, BCE of McCloud Services; Dr. Bobby Corrigan of RMC Pest Management Consulting; Patricia Hottel, BCE of... --- - Published: 2019-06-10 - Modified: 2019-06-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/ways-to-minimize-pests-around-dumpsters/ Dumpsters can be both an attractant and breeding site for pests. Here are some tips for proper maintenance of dumpsters to help minimize pest development. Dumpsters can be both an attractant and breeding site for pests. Proper selection, design and maintenance are a must to help minimize attraction and pest development Follow these easy tips for proper installation and maintenance of dumpsters around your facility Under ideal conditions, dumpsters would be located more than 100 feet from the structure. This is not possible for large facilities and so the dumpster is often placed next to the dock doors. The closer the dumpster is to the building, the greater potential for pests. Make sure that pest proofing is at its highest level in this area. Pest proof neighboring doors and keep doors closed when not in use. Dumpsters should be situated on a thick concrete pad that has foundation toes on the outside to keep rodents from burrowing under the pad. If possible, the dumpster area should slope to a sanitary sewer drain to handle runoff from cleaning. There should be no thick shrubbery around dumpster enclosures. Such plants might help conceal the dumpster from view, but they also conceal rodent burrows, encourage birds and can be areas where dumpster related litter collects. Make sure weeds or grass around a dumpster are trimmed and managed. Dumpsters should be enclosed or have lids. Lids must be kept closed when not actively adding trash to it. Closed lids and dumpsters can decrease pest access and odors which may be emanating from the dumpster contents. Dumpsters should be cleaned each time they are emptied. This is especially important in... --- - Published: 2019-04-12 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/ben-jones-named-2019-walter-award-recipient/ McCloud Services, a leading pest management company headquartered in South Elgin, Ill. , is pleased to announce that Ben Jones, Area Manager – Chicago Service Center, has been named the company’s 2019 Walter Award recipient. McCloud Services created the Walter Award in 2015 to honor members of the McCloud team who demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities and exceptional character. Of numerous nominees company-wide, Jones was honored with the fourth annual award for his contributions to McCloud in the areas of character, innovation, teamwork, core values and leadership. By leading his team through transition and staffing changes, Jones was recognized for his dedication to continuous improvement in all aspects of his job. He is admired greatly by his colleagues for his determination to provide the best service options possible for his clients, and his thoughtful operations decisions that impact his teammates. Anna Berry, Training Manager for McCloud, nominated Jones, noting his focus on the importance of quality with his team from a recent conversation in which he stated, “I will continue to run short-staffed before I allow bad or mediocre pest management to become the standard of our service center. ” Jones’s responsibilities include maintaining strong customer relationships, managing the Chicago Service Center’s team, facilitating the service center’s growth and improving customer satisfaction. Jones is also responsible for the financial performance of the service center and oversees field operations including service delivery, sales, quality assurance and customer account management. “Ben is driven. He inspires his team to improve and successfully deliver for... --- - Published: 2019-03-12 - Modified: 2019-03-12 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/stephanie-dickson-named-president-of-mccloud-services/ Stephanie Dickson Named President of McCloud Services March 11, 2019 / Press Release McCloud Services, a leading pest management company headquartered in South Elgin, Ill. , announced that Stephanie Dickson has been promoted to president. “We are proud to announce Stephanie’s promotion to president,” said Chris McCloud, chief executive officer of McCloud Services. “With over twenty years of service to the Company, Stephanie has been a successful and strategic leader within McCloud. Her strategic thinking capabilities, expertise and strong business acumen have contributed to the solid execution of our operational strategies and substantial growth in our commercial pest management segment. Stephanie’s vision and leadership have been integral to our success and we are thrilled for her to take the next step forward in her career. ” Dickson has served the pest management industry for nearly 30 years. She earned a bachelor’s degree in entomology from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She is also a graduate of the 1997-1998 Kellogg Foundation Leadership Program, a 2011 graduate of the GAP International Executive Challenge Course, and has completed the University of Chicago Booth School of Business Executive Program in Strategic Sales Management. In addition, Dickson is currently a member of Phi Chi Omega – the National Pest Management Fraternity and serves on the Executive Peer Advisory Group of the Loyola Family Business Center. About McCloud Services McCloud Services is a leader in integrated pest management solutions, serving the food supply chain of custody, health care, hospitality, property management, retail industries and... --- - Published: 2018-11-27 - Modified: 2019-04-04 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-birds-english-house-sparrow-2/ The English house sparrow is one of the most common of the pest bird species. It’s small size and aggressive nature, helps contribute to its success as an urban pest. They can carry over 29 diseases and spread parasites like bird mites. English House Sparrow Identification: Adults are approximately 6 inches in length. The males are females are slightly different in color with the males having more pronounced black markings around the head. Nesting: They will build nests in protected areas on or near buildings. The nests will be made from grass, straw, feathers or similar materials. Food: They will feed on a wide variety of things including seeds, grains, fruit, insects and food scraps. Although many people enjoy watching and feeding birds, it is important that we discourage this practice by employees, the public and through poor sanitation practices around facilities. The English house sparrow is one of the most common of the pest bird species. It’s small size and aggressive nature, helps contribute to its success as an urban pest. They can carry over 29 diseases and spread parasites like bird mites. It is the most common species of birds to enter buildings via open doors. Once indoors, it can potentially spread disease and contaminate food and food contact surfaces with its droppings. Prevention and Control Tips for the English House Sparrow Keep refuse areas as clean as possible. Trash receptacles should have self-closing lids and be emptied frequently. Educate employees on the importance of keeping doors closed while not in use to help prevent bird entry. Pest proof all openings larger than ¾” which can provide access to the building like vent screens. Seal any openings along exterior walls that may provide access for nesting. Examples would be openings... --- - Published: 2018-10-23 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/5-ways-to-prevent-rodents/ Rodents easily exploit the resources that we can supply in the form of food, water and shelter. Here are 5 Ways You Can Prevent a Rodent Infestation. Did you know the house mouse is the second most successful mammal on earth and the Norway rat is the third? Humans are number one and we share our successes with these pests. They easily exploit the resources that we can supply in the form of food, water and shelter. Here are 5 ways you can prevent a rodent infestation 1. Seal the Structure Although pests like rats and mice may look fairly large, they do not require much space to enter a facility. These pests can gain entry at the base of a door or at an opening around a pipe/wall juncture. Mice can enter a structure through openings as small as ¼” or approximately the diameter of a pencil. To exclude mice or rats, seal the structure to make sure all openings are less than these measurements. It is best to use stainless steel meshes or a combination of stainless steel mesh and high-density foam. A sealant “sandwich” can be made using a layer of high density foam with a layer of stainless steel mesh, tucked in between a second layer of foam. This strategy is particularly useful when sealing cracks in floor expansion joints. Avoid the use of expandable foams as standalone sealants as rodents can chew through these materials. Having the proper door seals and keeping doors closed when not in use are key steps in pest prevention. Gaps around the door itself can allow pests to enter. Pest proofing materials like door sweeps and guards... --- - Published: 2018-10-15 - Modified: 2024-08-13 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/common-pest-found-in-hotels/ Here are some of the common pests found in hotels and tips on how to protect your company's image and reputation Pests are undoubtedly one of your biggest everyday problems when managing a hotel. So it helps to know exactly what pests you, your staff, or your guests will run into and how to handle them. Because it’s more than just bed bugs – any pest that seeks out shelter and food will likely seek out a hotel, where there’s an abundance of both. Here is a list of the common types of pests found in hotels, along with some helpful pest control tips to protect your company’s reputation and brand. 1. German Cockroach German cockroaches are most commonly found in kitchens and service areas where moisture and heat are present. They may also infest employee personnel's belongings and be associated with break rooms and locker rooms. Other species of cockroaches may be found in atriums and pool areas. Prevention Tips for German Cockroaches Inspect incoming shipments to prevent the introduction of pests into the facility. This includes food shipments as well as other items like linens. Quick removal from cardboard cartons can be helpful in finding stowaway cockroaches and limiting their harborage. Minimize the use of corrugated cardboard for long-term storage of items. Use clear plastic totes or bins instead of boxes. German cockroaches like the corrugations and folds that a cardboard box provides, which are not cleanable. The clear plastic will allow you to see inside and the lid and help prevent pest access. Employees can introduce German cockroaches. To confine any hitchhiking pests brought into the hotel, employees... --- - Published: 2018-09-27 - Modified: 2018-09-27 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/fall-into-a-pest-proofing-routine/ Pests such as mice, rats, box elder bugs and spiders will look for shelter in warm homes as the weather grows cooler. Now is the time to Pest Proof Homes Homeowners Should Integrate Pest Proofing into their Routines for the Fall Season With summer on its way out, many homeowners may think their pest problems will wane, too. That’s not the case. In fact, with a new season comes different pest challenges to face and another round of pest proofing to do for the home. Pests like mice, rats, box elder bugs and spiders will look for shelter in warm homes as the weather grows cooler, which is why the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and McCloud Services encourage homeowners to integrate pest proofing into their routines for the fall season. Rodents, for example, are a more common fall pest. Rodents can contaminate food and damage drywall and electrical wires throughout the home. Other fall invaders to combat are box elder bugs, brown marmorated stink bugs, the cluster fly and multicolored Asian lady beetles. As the days get shorter and evening and day temps get lower, we see an increase in activity. As we head into fall, now is the time to pest proof homes so these invaders don’t become a threat this winter. McCloud Services and the NPMA recommend these common pest-proofing tips for the fall season: Seal bases of exterior doors and garage doors, attic vents and openings to chimneys. Mice can enter a space as small as a dime or ¼. ” Even smaller openings must be sealed to prevent insect entry. Eliminate moisture sites, including leaking pipes and clogged drains. Seal cracks and crevices on the... --- - Published: 2018-09-27 - Modified: 2018-09-27 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/minimize-the-threat-stinging-insects-fall/ As summer slowly comes to an end, stinging insects such as paper wasps, bald-faced hornets and yellow jackets enter into their most active season in September. As summer slowly comes to an end, stinging insects such as paper wasps, bald-faced hornets and yellow jackets enter into their most active season in September "Many people think that stinging insects are most active in June and July, but stinging insects are actually most aggressive in the early fall as the colony size has peaked and natural food sources start to decline, driving these insects to interact with humans more frequently,” said Patricia Hottel, technical director for McCloud Services. “Come autumn, stinging insect colonies in the Midwest can contain upwards of 4,000 members, leading to an increased number of stings as they tend to forage on human food. ” The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) reports that more than 500,000 people are sent to the emergency room every year due to insect stings. Some stings can also cause severe allergic reactions. McCloud Services encourages people to be on the lookout for stinging insects when attending late summer picnics or completing home maintenance projects around the yard this fall. Follow these tips if you encounter stinging insects in your yard: If possible, treat nests on the property to reduce workers and next year’s queens. If a nest is found on the property, McCloud Services recommends calling a licensed pest professional for assistance. If a nest can be found and treated, it will reduce the risks of foraging wasps. Consider the use of traps to reduce numbers. Place traps around the perimeter of the area you are trying to protect. They... --- - Published: 2018-08-17 - Modified: 2018-08-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/its-cluster-fly-season/ Now is the time of year when adult cluster flies start to enter structures and the time for treating the exterior of buildings to help prevent inward migrations. Now is the time of year when adult cluster flies start to enter structures and the time for treating the exterior of buildings to help prevent inward migrations. Cluster flies tend to be more of a problem following a wet summer and many areas in the U. S. have experienced a wet summer. We predict higher populations of cluster flies this year. The consequences of cluster flies in buildings can range from a nuisance to more serious issues when these pests are found in hospital operating rooms or processing areas of a food plant. They enter the structure as adults in search of a warm site to spend the winter. Essentially, a building wall void is to a cluster fly as the state of Florida is to a snowbird. They more commonly enter structures on the sunny side of the building in fall and are attracted to areas of contrast where dark and light structural elements meet. They do not feed or breed in structures. The adults may emerge from void spaces throughout the winter and spring. Warm, sunny days during the winter can trigger emergence. Cluster Fly Identification Adult cluster flies are a little bit larger than the common house fly. They are more sluggish and are often seen near lights and on window sills. They have golden hairs on the thorax, or area behind the head, and lack the pale yellow spots on the abdomen that house flies have. Biology of Cluster Flies Cluster fly larvae are parasitic... --- - Published: 2018-08-14 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/restaurant-storage-practices-minimize-pest-risk/ McCloud Services shares in-depth insight on ways restaurants can mitigate the risk of pests through storage and design. McCloud Services Offers Expertise on Reducing Risk of Pests in Restaurants Among the day-to-day activities of a restaurant, kitchen crews and general managers should also consider the pest management practices in place to prevent pest risk. McCloud Services, a leading pest management company is offering in-depth insight on ways restaurants can mitigate the risk of pests through storage and design. It is no secret that restaurants are generally considered high risk for pest invasions for a number of reasons, including active food prep areas, heavy employee and customer traffic flow, passage of outside vendors and crowded food storage areas. One pest sighting can be detrimental to an establishment's brand reputation; therefore, proper policies, training and proactive pest management will mitigate a good portion of pest risk. "Pests will often hide in only a few spaces, especially in areas that are hard to clean since they attract less attention," said Anna Berry, BCE, training manager of McCloud Services. "Reducing the potential for pests to find food, water and shelter in a restaurant is an important step to take, as well as properly cleaning kitchen equipment and fixing structural damages. This will mitigate much of the risk, particularly where human behavior is a significant source. " McCloud Services discusses ways pest risk can be mitigating through storage and design and the preventative measures restaurants and their staff can take in its article, "Simple Solutions for Minimizing Pest Risk in Restaurants through Storage and Design. " To learn more, please download McCloud Services'... --- - Published: 2018-08-10 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/spiders-begin-seeking-new-homes-for-fall/ As summer comes to an end, the spiders that have been enjoying the season outside will look indoors for the fall season in search of prey. Here are some helpful tips on how to best protect against spiders from entering your home. Spiders Begin Seeking New Homes for Fall As summer comes to an end, the spiders that have been enjoying the season outside will look indoors for the fall season in search of prey. Here are some helpful tips on how to best protect against spiders from entering your home. Spiders aren’t all bad, as they do provide a form of natural pest control by catching insects for food, but their presence and their webs can be a nuisance and undesirable in the home. Large infestations and certain species of spiders, such as Black Widows and Brown Recluse spiders should only be handled by a professional pest control company. To help prevent spiders from moving indoors once their summer vacations are over, follow these tips from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA): Keep garages, attics and basements clean and clutter-free. Most spiders seek out secluded, undisturbed areas where they can build a web to catch their next meal, so an attic or basement that has been left unused over the past season could be harboring these pests out of sight. Avoid leaving clothing and shoes on the floor and consider storing them inside plastic containers. Seal any cracks or crevices around the home. Spiders can crawl into homes through damaged window screens or cracks in the siding and foundation of a home. Inspect items such as boxes of decorations and grocery bags before bringing them indoors. Packages are often left on the front step when delivered, and groceries might be placed... --- - Published: 2018-08-10 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/fsma-compliant-food-safety-program/ A comprehensive pest management program is a necessary component to an effective food safety program under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Learn about the critical program elements required for a successful FSMA compliant food safety program. A comprehensive pest management program is a necessary component to an effective food safety program under the Food Safety Modernization Act To prevent widespread food illnesses created by improper processing or sanitation practices, FSMA was introduced by the FDA to ensure the U. S. food supply is safe by implementing proactive controls as the foundation of the law. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 48 million people (1 in 6 Americans) get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die each year from foodborne diseases. FSMA signed into law by President Obama enables the FDA to better protect public health by strengthening the food safety system. A comprehensive pest management plan is a critical component to a FSMA compliant food safety program. "Food facilities are required to implement a written preventive controls plan, which includes sanitation maintenance and pest management practices. The goal is to build a proactive pest management program based on identified risks and encourage the food facility to operate under a preventive mindset versus reactive," said Patricia Hottel, technical director of McCloud Services. There are several elements that go into an effective pest management program under FSMA guidelines, including performing a risk analysis and thorough inspection of past pest pressures, establishing preventative controls, conducting ongoing monitoring and visual inspections and identifying corrective actions to control the source through root cause analysis for long term success. Electronic documentation is also a key component in program development, verification and maintenance, and proper evaluation must occur on... --- - Published: 2018-08-09 - Modified: 2018-08-10 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/fumigation-an-effective-pest-control-method/ Fumigation treatments remain an important element of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and will successfully mitigate pest pressures when performed properly. Here's some expert insight on fumigation practices as a pest control solution. Fumigation Plays Effective Role in Pest Control for Food Safety McCloud Services Shares Expert Insight on Fumigation Practices as a Pest Management Solution Performing fumigation work requires highly trained, licensed professionals that have an aptitude for assessing situational need and safety that can model fumigation strategies to meet client needs. It is vital that the need for fumigation be essential or required, that proper gas selection is chosen, and a comprehensive site assessment has been conducted to ensure a safe and effective fumigation. “Fumigation treatments remain an important element of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and will successfully mitigate pest pressures when performed properly,” said Jeff Jones, fumigation manager at McCloud Services. “In some cases, fumigation will be the first and only control method. In other cases, it will be the last resort. If food safety and quality are in danger, and no other pest solution is possible – especially due to time constraints – defaulting to fumigation is prudent. ” McCloud Services provides expert insights on the use of fumigation as a pest management procedure in food facilities in its article “Fumigation: An Effective Pest Control Method for the Food Supply Chain of Custody” Download the complete article to learn more about the detailed fumigation process Download Now About McCloud Services McCloud Services is a leader in integrated pest management solutions, serving the food supply chain of custody, health care, hospitality, property management, retail industries and residential markets. With a foundation of over 100 years of industry and... --- - Published: 2018-08-06 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/common-pest-found-in-restaurants/ Here are some of the common pests found in restaurants along with some helpful tips on how to protect your business from a pest infestation. Here are some of the common pests found in restaurants along with some helpful tips on how to protect your business from a pest infestation. GERMAN COCKROACH German cockroaches will most commonly be found where there is moisture and heat in kitchen and service areas. They may also come in on employee personnel belongings. The German cockroach has been implicated in outbreaks of illness and allergic reactions in many people. Cockroaches have been reported to spread at least 33 kinds of bacteria, six kinds of parasitic worms and at least seven other kinds of human pathogens. Medical studies have shown that cockroach allergens cause allergic reactions in children and can exacerbate asthma attacks. They can contaminate food and damage surfaces with their feces and presence. Prevention Tips for German Cockroaches Exclusion is the first step in trying to prevent these pests from even entering your restaurant. Seal around pipe/wall junctures and other openings where the cockroaches may enter from neighboring units to ensure that cockroaches are not introduced on boxes or other items. Make sure that employees store personal items in a designated area which will help confine any hitchhiking pests to that area. Inspect incoming goods, keep food and food spills to a minimum and practice good sanitation. FILTH FLIES Filth flies are most commonly entering from the outside and may be attracted to a facility by garbage dumpsters and trash receptacles. Frequently opened doors can contribute to interior issues. Prevention Tips for Filth Flies Keeping doors closed or... --- - Published: 2018-08-06 - Modified: 2018-08-06 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/earwigs-a-common-pest-of-summer/ Earwigs feed on seedlings and can be considered a serious horticultural pest in greenhouses. They will also feed on soft fruits and sweet corn and can cause damage to produce. Follow these pest prevention tips to reduce the risk of an earwig infestation. Pest Prevention Tips for Retail Food Stores The Earwig: A Common Pest of Summer There are a variety of different species of earwigs in the United States but the most common one in the Midwest is the European earwig. Adults are approximately 5/8” in length, flat and reddish brown in color. They have 2 pairs of wings. One pair is folded underneath a pair of short, leathery wings. The most easily recognizable feature is the pair of pinchers at the rear of the body. These pinchers are used for capturing prey and in defense. Earwigs are most active at night and rest under objects like flower pots, boards and other items where moisture has collected during the day. They can fly, but rarely do so. Despite the myth surrounding earwigs, they do not commonly enter the ears, bore into the human brain or cause other medical harm to humans. They will feed on seedlings and can be considered a serious horticultural pest in greenhouses. They may feed on leaves in gardens and garden centers. They will also feed on soft fruits and sweet corn and can cause damage to produce. In adverse weather conditions of extreme heat or drought, they may enter structures in large numbers through poorly sealed doors. In addition, they may hitch-hike on items brought indoors like plants. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of an earwig infestation: Keep doors well sealed, especially at the base. Use astragal door seals to seal the space between the... --- - Published: 2018-06-20 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/filth-fly-prevention-tips-for-retail-food-stores/ Filth flies can develop in a phenomenally short period of time. It can take as little as 6 days for the common house fly to go from egg to adult during the warm weather. This is the major reason why we have problems with these types of flies in mid to late summer. A short life cycle means a larger number of flies during times when conditions are good. Filth flies received their name because they are associated with filth and can transmit diseases, including those diseases responsible for food borne illness. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of filth flies around your store: Keep dock doors closed when not in use. Flies like the house fly are typically breeding outdoors and coming in from the exterior. Make sure that trash chute doors are sealed tightly. Outdoor flies can be lured to the building via the scent of garbage and make their way into the structure through poor sealed garbage chute doors or housing. Make sure that doors are well sealed when closed, even around the base. We typically focus on the bottom door seal for rodent control but flies and other insects will enter through bottom door gaps as well. Keep the pad around the dumpster clean and free of debris which may attract flies and even provide an area for them to breed. Use trash receptacles with self-closing lids on the exterior to minimize garbage odors and reduce the ability for flies to forage. Keep exterior break... --- - Published: 2018-06-18 - Modified: 2018-06-18 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/summer-season-increased-protection-mosquitoes-ticks/ Mosquito and tick populations are on the rise again as the country transitions to the summer season While these pests are certainly nuisances, they can also transmit harmful diseases like Zika virus, West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and more, which is why McCloud Services is helping to advocate for increased awareness of mosquito and tick prevention this summer. One of the best ways to fight off mosquito and tick bites and subsequent disease transmission is to apply insect repellent before going outside. Yet, many people don’t make it a priority to protect against these biting pests by taking this simple action. And those who do may not realize that there is a correct way to use repellent in order for it to be effective. To properly apply insect repellent for maximum protection against mosquitoes and ticks, follow this five-step method from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA): Look for a product containing an active EPA-registered ingredient, such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon-eucalyptus or IR3535. Read the product label and follow the instructions carefully. If sunscreen is also being worn, repellent should be used over top of sunscreen. Shake the product well. Then, hold it about 6-8 inches away from exposed skin and spray evenly in a sweeping motion. Spray the palms of hands to apply the repellent to the face and ears, being sure to avoid eye and nostril contact. Apply the repellent over clothing, which should completely cover feet and ankles. --- - Published: 2018-05-31 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/commons-hiding-spots-for-bed-bugs/ Summer travel means a higher chance of coming into contact with bed bugs who love the warmth and are great at hitchhiking. It’s important to check your room and belongings for these blood sucking insects when traveling and once returning home. The Most Common Hiding Spots for Bed Bugs while Traveling Summer travel means a higher chance of coming into contact with bed bugs who love the warmth and are great at hitchhiking. It’s important to check your room and belongings for these blood sucking insects when traveling and once returning home. To promote public awareness and to help avoid infestations, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has declared June 3-9, 2018 as Bed Bug Awareness Week. McCloud Services is joining NPMA in this public education effort by sharing key bed bug hiding spots to look out for. Despite their name, bed bugs can be found virtually anywhere that people tend to gather and are easily transported. Be sure to properly check your accommodations when traveling and to give your belongings a good look after vacation. If an infestation is suspected, it’s best to call a licensed pest control professional to assess the situation. Here is a list of common hiding spots you should inspect for bed bugs: Thoroughly inspect the entire room for bed bugs before unpacking, including behind the headboard, under lights, and inside dressers, drawers, sofas and chairs. Pull back the sheets and inspect the mattress seams and box springs, particularly at the corners, for pepper-like stains, spots or shed bed bug skins. Place suitcases in a plastic trash bag during the duration of the trip to ensure that bed bugs cannot take up residence there prior to departure. Bed bugs can easily hitchhike via housekeeping carts, luggage... --- - Published: 2018-04-19 - Modified: 2024-07-17 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/hazards-ahead-canada-geese/ During breeding seasons, the Canada goose can attack people from the ground and the air when defending their young and nests. These actions can include charging people and even bites. Management of Canada geese is important for health and safety reasons. In early spring we see an increase in bird sightings as migratory birds return and nesting of resident bird populations begin. One bird announces its arrival in a dramatic way due to its large size and aggressive behavior. That bird is the Canada goose. Note for its long black black neck and over 5-foot wing span, this bird can stand over 3 feet in height. During breeding seasons, this bird can attack people from the ground and the air when defending their young and nests. These actions can include charging people and even bites. In addition to their aggressive nest defending behavior, geese leave a lot of droppings in their paths. It is estimated that one goose can produce an average, 1. 5 pounds or more of fecal material per day. The droppings may be deposited as frequently as every 20 minutes. The majority of Canada geese are non-migratory and therefore, the frequent fecal deposits accumulate year-round. The goose poop may be left on land or deposited in ponds. In ponds, it can add to the nitrogen and phosphorous loads resulting in algae growth and poor pond health. On land, the droppings are messy, unsightly and can create slip hazards. In addition, fecal material can be tracked into food facilities along with potential pathogens when droppings occur on pedestrian walkways. Currently there is no research demonstrating a direct relationship between a food borne illness outbreak and goose droppings. However, scientists have compiled a list of pathogens found in goose poop... --- - Published: 2018-04-14 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/spring-welcomes-stored-product-insects/ A pheromone mating disruption program can play a key role in managing stored product pests. Spring is the ideal time to review and renew your stored product pest pheromone programs. Developing a pheromone monitoring program is key in springtime Spring is right around the corner, and with the arrival of warmer weather comes stored product insects. Common stored product pests include Cigarette Beetles, Drugstore Beetles, Flour Beetles, Indianmeal Moths, Rice Weevils, Sawtoothed Grain Beetles and Warehouse Beetles. A pheromone mating disruption program can play a key role in managing these pests. Spring is the ideal time to review and renew your stored product pest pheromone programs. Benefits of a pheromone program: Pheromone traps can be useful in monitoring a wide variety of stored product beetles and moths. In some unheated facilities, these traps may have been shut down over the winter. Now is the time to replace and refresh traps and continue monitoring programs to help alert pest management professionals of any infestations. With newer pheromone technology, dispensers are used for flooding areas with mating pheromone lures for control and population reduction. By saturating an area with pheromone plumes, males are unable to successfully locate females for mating. Unmated females will result in lower insect populations in the long term. Pheromone mating disruption dispensers are available for Indianmeal moth and related moth species only. In addition to the seasonal rationale for reexamining stored product pest pheromone programs, recent changes in the American Institute of Baking (AIB) food safety standards now make it a critical requirement to have a pheromone monitoring program in place. This requirement is for facilities with products susceptible to stored product pests. It is a good time... --- - Published: 2018-04-06 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-proof-your-home-this-spring/ McCloud Services encourages homeowners to take the proper precautions to protect their health, food and homes from these unwanted visitors. McCloud Services Celebrates National Pest Management Month in April McCloud Services advises homeowners to pest-proof their homes this spring McCloud Services is joining the professional pest control industry in celebrating National Pest Management Month this April, a public observance recognized by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and Chase’s Calendar of Events, honoring the role pest control professionals have in protecting the public’s health, food and properties from common pest threats. During the spring season, pests are out in full force and are attracted to homes and yards as they search for a food source. McCloud Services encourages homeowners to take the proper precautions to protect their health, food and homes from these unwanted visitors. “Pests like termites, rodents, cockroaches, mosquitoes and ticks are a concern when the weather is warmer and all bring their own distinct set of complications along with them. Think: structural damage, foodborne illnesses, allergy and asthma triggers, Zika virus and Lyme disease — to name only a few, “said Patricia Hottel, technical director. “As we’re heading into peak pest season, we strongly encourage homeowners to take a careful look around their properties and to contact a pest control professional to help eliminate pest problems and associated health risks around the home. ” To assist homeowners in pest-proofing their homes this spring, McCloud Services and NPMA experts recommend the following: Eliminate sources of standing water around the house, including birdbaths and in clogged gutters to help reduce biting mosquito populations. Seal any cracks on the outside... --- - Published: 2018-04-03 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/ants-ready-to-bug-homeowners-this-spring/ As temperatures continue to rise, McCloud Services, warns that America’s number one nuisance pest will invade homes this spring in search of food. Follow these simple prevention tips to keep ants from marching indoors. Pest Prevention Tips to Keep Ants from Marching Indoors Spring is officially here and with it comes one of the most persistent warm-weather pests – ants. As temperatures continue to rise, McCloud Services, warns that America’s number one nuisance pest will invade homes this spring in search of food. While most species present problems in people’s pantries and kitchens, some species can deliver painful bites while others inflict property damage. According to a survey from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), more than half of consumers list ants as their top pest concern. “As most homeowners know, ants are especially drawn to the kitchen and their sheer numbers can be daunting” said Patricia Hottel, technical director of McCloud Services. Pavement ants and carpenter ants are most likely to invade Chicagoland homes this spring, but eliminating food sources can help keep them at bay. Of all the U. S. ant species, carpenter ants can pose the most risks for homeowners. Carpenter ants excavate wood in order to build their nests, which can compromise a home’s structural soundness. Although ants can be difficult to control once they have entered a home, the following preventative measures can play a major role in helping to avoid infestations: Wipe up crumbs and food immediately Store garbage in sealed containers and remove from the home frequently Keep food packages closed or sealed and store products in air-tight containers Avoid leaving food out on the counter or pet food out on the floor for long periods of... --- - Published: 2018-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/ants-a-first-sight-of-spring/ Retail stores may experience problems with ants being shipped in on product or inside wooden pallets. They may also come inside from the surrounding exterior as they search for food or new nest sites. Pest Prevention Tips: Ants Ants are the most common cause of pest related complaints in the United States and one of the first pests on the scene in the spring. They are a diverse group with a variety of preferred habitats. Ants are social insects which may nest in soil, wood or structural voids. Retail stores may experience problems with ants being shipped in on product or inside wooden pallets. They may also come inside from the surrounding exterior as they search for food or new nest sites. The type of ant pest a site will experience will vary based on geographical location and available resources. There are hundreds of different species of ants in the U. S. A native ant species, the odorous house ant can be found in most parts of the U. S. and is highly attracted to sugar-based food like beverage syrups. A more northern species is the pavement ant. It can be recognized by the small soil craters it creates around paved areas in the soil. It is a more general feeder, eating sugar and protein-based foods. Regardless of the species, there are some things that retail food stores can do to help minimize issues with these common pest: Inspect all incoming shipments to make sure that ants are not brought into the facility inside shipping containers or wooden pallets. Carpenter ants will create galleries in wooden pallets or may harbor in voids of product containers. A variety of ants can be brought in on... --- - Published: 2018-03-12 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/2017_donations/ McCloud Services Honors Top-Performing Employees' Charities of Choice as Part of the Company's Philanthropic Priorities. March 7, 2018 / Press Release McCloud Services is excited to announce the charitable organizations that will receive a donation as part of its 2017 Employee Incentive Program. In its sixth year, the program has contributed nearly $25,000 to non-profit organizations as part of the company's philanthropy work. Charitable organizations receiving donations from the Employee Incentive Program for the 2017 year include St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital; American Cancer Society; Boys and Girls Club of America; Big Brother, Big Sister; American Red Cross; and the Humane Society. "We are thrilled to continue the tradition of recognizing our top-performing employees by donating to a charity of their choice. In its sixth year, our employee incentive program not only motivates our employees to succeed, but to also give back to their communities," said Chris McCloud, president and CEO of McCloud Services. "At McCloud, we strive to provide a great place to work and offer an environment that inspires success. It is wonderful to see our team members fulfill McCloud's mission everyday throughout the communities in which we live and work. " The program rewards team members who exceed production and sales goals for the year with an employee incentive program that gives back to the community. All individual performance winners have the opportunity to select a qualified non-profit organization for which McCloud Services makes a donation on their behalf. Recognized team members also receive a company-paid trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico. The 2017 Incentive Program winners include: Patricia Hottel – Technical Director... --- - Published: 2018-03-12 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/spring-cleaning-helps-keep-homes-pest-free/ The spring months mark the onset of harmful pests including stinging insects like yellowjackets, wasps and hornets, making pest prevention especially important this time of year. Follow these quick and simple pest control tips. McCloud Services encourages homeowners to partake in spring cleaning as part of pest prevention Spring cleaning is a longstanding tradition helping homeowners welcome the warmer season’s weather, from bringing the outdoor patio furniture out of storage to simply reorganizing the shelves and closets in the house. While the attention of spring cleaning is mainly on aesthetic purposes, there are also specific spring cleaning steps you can take to protect your home from pest invasions and damage. Spring cleaning is an opportune practice to inspect homes for, and fix, areas presenting potential pest threats since homeowners are already going through each room and the outdoor premises to get organized. Even taking note of, and sealing, the smallest crack or opening is beneficial in the long run as those crevices, if not attended to, can grow larger with time and become points of entry into the home for pests. The spring months also mark the onset of harmful pests including stinging insects like yellowjackets, wasps and hornets, making pest prevention especially important this time of year. We recommend the following quick and simple pest control tips provided by the NPMA to keep your home pest free this spring: Seal up cracks and small openings along the foundation of the house. Eliminate sources of moisture or standing water. Keep tree branches and other plants cut back from the house. Keep kitchens clean by wiping counters and emptying the garbage frequently. Keep all food containers sealed. Avoid leaving pet's food dishes out for long... --- - Published: 2018-02-20 - Modified: 2021-07-08 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/preventing-mice-in-storage-rooms/ The house mouse is pest of concern for grocery stores in the dock and storage areas. In addition to damaging products through gnawing and feeding on packaging, they can contaminate food with their fecal pellets and urine. Exclusion and sanitation are a key to prevention. Pest Prevention Tips: Preventing Mice in Storage Rooms The house mouse is pest of concern for grocery stores in the dock and storage areas. In addition to damaging products through gnawing and feeding on packaging, they can contaminate food with their fecal pellets and urine. Exclusion and sanitation are a key to prevention. Follow these Tips to Reduce Rodent Access Survival Keep trash chutes and disposal areas as clean as possible. Keep openings around trash chutes sealed. Keep doors sealed and closed when not in use. If dock plates are present, they should be sealed as well to prevent pest entry from the dock pit. Keep clutter to a minimum. Old displays and equipment should be discarded if no longer needed. Areas above coolers tend to become depositories for unwanted equipment. Maintain an area for inspection and trapping along walls behind storage racks and pallets. Rodents can use walls as runways. This is an important area for inspection and trapping. Use the first in / first out (FIFO) system of stock rotation for the products stored in the back as well as the front of the store. Older inventory provides an undisturbed area for rodent breeding. Provide access to cooler tops, compressor rooms, sprinkler rooms and any locked storage areas to your McCloud service specialist. These undisturbed areas can be important areas for pest development. Keep walls and floors sealed. Mice only need a crack ¼” wide or a dime sized hole to gain access to the store. Keep the... --- - Published: 2018-02-02 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/pest-control-cost-cutting-environment/ Food Processing Online - By considering the impact on pest prevention in other decision-making, food professionals can pick up the slack from time-stressed service technicians. By considering the impact on pest prevention in other decision-making, food professionals can pick up the slack from time-stressed service technicians. January 24, 2018 - By: Kevin Higgins, Managing Editor, Food Processing Online Food companies, like people in general, don’t always get the services they pay for, but they can be certain they won’t get services they didn’t pay for. This truism certainly applies to pest control, the industry’s most frequently outsourced service. More than seven out of 10 food professionals who participated in Food Processing’s 17th annual Manufacturing Outlook Survey indicated their plants rely on service vendors for pest control, a ratio that may understate the frequency of outsourcing. As procurement officers bargain harder for higher service levels and lower costs, the stage may be set for pest management programs that fall short of what production facilities and warehouses need, some pest specialists say. The same dilemma exists with sanitation, landscaping services and any other outsourced services. While there are no easy solutions, the fundamental need is engagement at the plant and warehouse level and an understanding of the inter-relationship of those services with operational functions. Likewise, ivy and small pebbles are potential homes and breeding grounds for rodents and pests. The pest-control technician working with a tight schedule may not assess the effects of new plantings. If facility managers don’t review plans for exterior improvements with an eye toward the pest impact, problems can result. A small body of water may evoke thoughts of Walden Pond, but it... --- - Published: 2017-12-14 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://mccloudservices.com/cold-weather-drives-rodents-inside-vehicles/ Take caution and be on the lookout for a rodent problem under the car hood and take the necessary step to prevent it from happening to them this winter Why rodents are hard wired to infest cars When it comes to car problems, there are countless possible causes. However, motorists might be surprised to learn that a rodent infestation could be what’s plaguing their vehicle. McCloud Services cautions drivers to be on the lookout for a rodent problem under the car hood and take the necessary step to prevent it from happening to them this winter. “When the temperature drops, rodents seek shelter, food and warmth in order to survive the colder months, which is why they often move into homes this time of year. ” says Patricia Hottel, technical director. “Unfortunately, cars offer the same protection and food sources for rodents that homes do. Plus, eco-friendly materials increasingly being used by car manufacturers, such as soy-based wiring, only further attract them and their palates. ” Sneaking into cars is rather easy for rodents, as mice and rats can fit through holes as small as a dime and a quarter, respectively. Steering columns, vents, pedal shafts and other openings serve as the main access points into vehicles for these intruders. Upon gaining entry, rodents commonly use insulation as nesting material and wires, tubes and circuitry as meals, leading to short circuits and other electrical problems. Aside from costly car repairs, rodents can compromise human health by spreading disease and causing respiratory issues. To mitigate this imminent threat to both drivers and their vehicles, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and McCloud Services recommend the following prevention tips: Seal up... --- ---