-I would agree that this is a Sandhill; "Jack" would appear to be a juvenile, judging by the black crown and partially orange bill. With this beautiful pond all to himself, I'm not surprised that he doesn't want to grow up!

Thank you for helping me identify this fellow. :o) My husband's cousin, who used to live across the street from Beacon Hill Park, told us about "Jack" and how people around the park loved him. I'll have to ask her how he's doing...

Trying to get my brain around this being a crane, but not succeeding. Seems to me this is a juvenile, but actually a Great Blue Heron. The black crown, white at the base of the bill, and streaky neck seem to point to a GHB. Sandhills juveniles would be more of a uniform gray, with tan markings on the back, and no head markings.

newbirder- Your Ident is correct! I've been researching Sandhills and GB Herons all morning, because the black crown and yellow lower mandible on my Ident, were bothering me too! then your comments appeared and solved the mystery! THANX ! "Jack" is a HERON!

Thank you, Jim & Newbirder, for taking time to solve the mystery. :o) :o) I looked at the GB Herons too, but didn't realize that the juveniles could be such a difference color than the adults. We learn something every day....

-if you hear from your husband's cousin about "Jack", let us know what outfit he is wearing; perhaps it will be a little fancier, with lots of plumes and easier for me to identify! HA!

Will do! :o)