if you remember awhile back,, I asked about some strystal looking pieces in the bottom of a beehive. I received an answer from Bee Journal,, they ran an article about bees collecting "strange" things. Fertilzer is one of them,, so,, that answers my question ( I spread fertilizer around a few days before), it was also noted that they collected ROTEZENE (?) which is a pesticide,,, noone is sure why they do this,, they dont store it,, usually just bring it in,, and it gets discarded. MAybe young gathers are confused as too what to bring in?? NOt sure,, but, thanks to all who helped. Hope this helps others

-- Stan (sopal@net-port.com), July 22, 2001