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