Joe Mc Cool wrote:
> bees foraging here in the North of Ireland are returning with lots of
> white powdery stuff on their backs.  Is this pollen ? 

Probably Water Balsam:

http://www.t-c-m-rd.co.uk/invasive-weeds/himalayan-balsam/

It leaves a long greyish-white stripe down their back.

Best wishes

Peter Edwards
[log in to unmask]
www.stratford-upon-avon.freeserve.co.uk/

******************************************************
* Full guidelines for BEE-L posting are at:          *
* http://www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l/guidelines.htm  *
******************************************************