Robin question and Squirrel in the shade

[Carma Sue Henry]

Our trex-type decking gets super hot in the sun, but cools quickly in the shade.  When the black sunflower seed bowls are in full sun (they sit where they go in and out of full sun vs shade) the squirrels spend a few minutes in the seed bowls then move to shady boards where they spread out flat as they can.  Smart little critters.  This one seemed very relaxed.

The last few days I've seen something quite new to me.  Our suet feeders tend to shed bits and pieces when they're refilled and when more vigorous diners go after them - especially the Jay's.  The bits fall onto the decking, some logs on the edge of the deck and the lawn below the edge.  There are lots of birds that work as a clean-up crew, so we don't worry much about it.  In the last week or so I've seen a Robin working over the log pile.  It is definately picking up and eating suet.  This is only a couple of feet from where we keep a deep baking pan full of water which the Robins use frequently for bathing.  Individuals have undoubtedly watched other birds picking up the suet bits.  I've never seen or heard of Robins eating suet before.  I'll try to get photos of the action and will post when/if I do.  Any one have any thoughts?

Carma Henry

Logsdon Ridge