> If the foragers do make the decisions about what pollen to collect -- and
> we know they don't always make wise choices -- could chemicals associated
> with the pollen not influence that decision, even if they do not consume it?

Certainly could, but only if the chemical were detectable by the bee
in some way, such as by smell, taste, or effect (such as stimulation).
 The research that I cited indicated that bees detected nicotine in
nectar by its effect, and would self regulate the dose (contrary to
the instance in Croatia described by Dr. Carson).

But since it is unlikely that pollen foragers eat much pollen, then in
that case they would need to absorb the chemical cutaneously in order
to detect it.  Could happen, but at the low concentrations in pollen,
and the relatively low actual contact to body surfaces, may be a
stretch to think that they are feeling an effect.  But possible, yes.

Randy Oliver

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