HandyAndy2018

Hi there, I observed this bird in New Brunswick, Canada on June 14. It started off when I heard the croak of a raven. I started in that direction and soon came across this bird, although it was not vocal while I observed it. I know size is sometimes difficult to judge in the field, but it didn't seem big enough to be a raven to me. The head shape seemed right, though, and it does seem to have the "shaggy throat." What do you think?

I know this pic is not the best, but it's all I have, and hopefully it's enough. I'm hoping to hear some opinions from the experts here. I spotted this bird in New Brunswick on July 23, and followed it a bit, but it always stayed a step ahead of me and my camera. This shot of it ducking into the reeds was the only one I could get. I'm sure it's a rail of some sort, and am thinking it's likely Virginia. Nothing else seems to fit. I cropped and brightened the photo a bit, but it's otherwise unaltered.Anyone else have any thoughts?