>1) Hives kept in towns averaged 22% winter loss
This one is a little harder to figure out. Maybe most of the hives kept in towns belong to small holders, 

Towns tend to have more of the 'Save the Bees' brigade who often have little idea of livestock management.  Many seem to think that by having a hive of bees they are somehow helping.  We frequently see people with plenty of money who buy bees to give themselves 'Green' credentials.

Some towns and cities (e.g. London) now have more colonies than they can support.  Gardens have often been paved over to provide parking space for all those cars.  I also wonder what effect all those diesel fumes have on bees.

Best wishes

Peter 
52°14'44.44"N, 1°50'35"W

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