Trying to nail down a personality profile for a local legend can be tough. Despite its name, this devil doesn't have a history of violence or evil deeds. Within the newspaper headlines were tales of mischief, hoaxes, or just sightings that really set people on edge. It's important to note that while mischievous, the Jersey Devil [JD] is known for its horrific figure and demeanor. The physical features of the JD vary from reports (like most folklore) but there are some consistent details:

• Bat-like wings

The first detail that is most critical. A commonly used and easy dismissal of JD existence is the presentation of the Sandhill Crane. The sandhill crane has some unusual and striking features. For one it is built similar to a flamingo, (without the pink pigment) so it stands taller than most birds at 3 to 5 feet. It has a significant wingspan that typically reaches from 5 to over 6.5 feet. The heads of both male and female are colored with a naturally striking red, in contrast to the rest of their clay colored bodies. The description of the sandhill crane may dismiss the Mothman's existence, but not the frankenstein'd Jersey Devil. The bat-like leathery wings reminiscent of other horrors such as Dracula or the Creeper.

• Cloven feet

One signature left behind by JD are hoof prints. There are no known animals that are bipedal that also have hooves or cloven feet. To take that statement further there are only two other mythical creatures that share this trait. The first is a satyr or faun; a neutral, mischievous and other times a good natured forest spirit. The second legendary creature is the devil. At best the Jersey Devil is a trickster. At worst it is simply evil.

• Dark Claws

Of course the JD doesn't have hooves on its hands. Instead are onyx talon-like claws. This distinct detail also discredits the "debunked" sandhill crane theory. While a large wingspan can be found in cranes there are no additional appendages attached to its top-half. Claw marks dug into some tree or stone is another signature.

• Gleaming eyes

Everything is scarier in the dark. Closets with the door ajar, underneath the bed, or a pair of glowing red eyes floating between the brush and bramble. No matter your opinion of the paranormal there is nothing scarier than staring into the endless abyss of a nighttime forest then seeing a pair of glowing eyes look back at you.

• Body

The least described body part of the Jersey Devil is the actual body. All of the artist interpretations from the discovery of this devil are monochrome. Most sightings occur at night and almost never describe the color or what type of flesh it's wrapped in. However, we do know that the legend resides in the forest. Either over time or due to its natural defenses, it would have to blend into the trees, leaves, and vines. Somewhat brown and somewhat green, some of it hairs and some of it moss.

• Horns

Not much to say other than devils have horns.