Here is a shot of the mystery bird, by the creek in Pampa, Texas (Panhandle Area). Please forgive the low quality of the shot. The bird was quite timid, and I was lucky to get this. Also, please forgive me, if this one is very common. I know very little about birds.

Thanks to everyone who responded to this question. The overwhelming answer is...(drum roll)..."Yellow-Crowned Night Heron"