No one knows for sure yet what’s causing Colony Collapse Disorder, but the use of pesticides is suspected. Contaminated water or a new pathogen are other possibilities. It’s a mystery that started in the US and has spread to several other countries.

What’s happening? Honey bees, known for being such hard workers, are disappearing. They just simply aren’t returning to their hives. And the colony, with only a queen and a few immature workers, collapses.

To put this disorder in terms everyone (well, nearly everyone) can relate to, think of it as ice cream.

According to a recent CNN article, the bee disorder is affecting 40% of Haagen-Dazs’ 73 flavors. We need honey bees for ingredients like almonds, strawberries and cherries.

What are some things you can do that might help the bees?

• Opt for organic herbicides in your lawn and garden. (See the Nature’s Avenger post.)

• The USDA suggests avoiding the use of pesticides mid-day when honey bees are most active.

• Buy from local organic farmers.

• This might seem silly, but rent Bee Movie! No, that won’t physically assist the bees, but it might help you and your family appreciate bees a bit more. I won’t give away the plot in case you haven’t seen it.

• Eat some Vanilla Honey Bee Ice Cream from Haagen-Dazs. They’ll donate a portion of the proceeds to fund honey bee research at the University of California, Davis and Penn State University.

Are you concerned about rising food prices due to Colony Collapse Disorder?

Image via Haagen-Dazs.

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