> white powdery stuff on their backs.  Is this pollen ?
This is a perennial topic.  It's the pollen from touch-me-not or jewel weed see: http://www.ppws.vt.edu/scott/weed_id/ipaca.htm
I assume it also grows in Ireland, but I'm only guessing.
 
Aaron Morris - I think, therefore I bee!

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