>>...there is no reason to think that the cause of Colony Collapse 
Disorder is "anything other than Mother Nature.''

I would challenge this point.  As it has been reported, CCD has been 
identified only in [some] managed colonies [which are not under 
exclusive Mother Nature's care!].  The commercial environment and 
exploitation of bees puts them under greater stress than the 
conditions in the wild. 

CCD would have to be identified in feral colonies for the statement 
to be true.  I have not heard that it has been and I looking forward 
to this season's colony removals from structures/trees.  Here in NY 
suburbia, I have not heard from beekeepers that I know are good 
beekeepers that they have experienced unusual losses in the last 12 
months. 

The man-influenced environment likely plays a role too in any 
imbalances leading to CCD.  GMO crops and pesticides are potential 
contributors.  I recently read an article that said there 
was 'anecdotal' evidence from farmers that, presented with both, 
their livestock would consume non-GMO feed before even approaching 
the GMO type. 

Waldemar
Long Island, NY

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