Self-proclaimed ‘Big Bird Bandits’ return $160,000 costume to Adelaide circus

A $160,000 Big Bird costume has been returned after being stolen from a circus in Adelaide by the self-proclaimed “Big Bird Bandits”.

The 213cm-tall, bright yellow costume reportedly made of ostrich feathers, was found dumped near the south-western end of the circus, with a note saying “no harm” had come to “Mr Bird”.

South Australia police were called to the Sesame Street Circus Spectacular at Port Road, Thebarton, after two men were seen carrying what appeared to be the missing costume early on Wednesday morning.

Police say the costume was dumped near an electricity box outside the circus, and that the two males carrying it ran away across Port Road.

Patrols descended on the area and secured the stolen costume, which contained a “letter of apology” in the beak.

The note, which is signed off by “The Big Bird Bandits”, begins by offering an apology for taking the costume, and explained that the “bandits” were just trying to cheer themselves up.

“We had no idea what we were doing, or what our actions would cause.

“We were just having a rough time and were trying to cheer ourselves up,

“We had a great time with Mr Bird, he’s a great guy and no harm came to our friend.”

Just before signing off, the writers apologised for being “such a big birden”.

Police said in a statement they searched the area using police dog patrols, but were unable to locate the two men.

Circus director Keith Brown told ABC Radio Adelaide that a trail of feathers were left by the “bandits”.

“He’s lost a couple of feathers as he’s gone down the road.”

Related: Sesame Street creates Rohingya Muppets to help refugee children

“We all live on-site, it’s a travelling touring show. It’s the first time Sesame Street has joined the circus – we have to remember this is an international circus show.”

The gigantic costume was flown in from New York to take part in the circus. Authorities confirmed that the bird wasn’t damaged during the ordeal.

The investigation into the theft is ongoing, with police saying they suspect the “Bandits” stole the costume sometime between Sunday afternoon on 18 April and Monday morning on 19 April.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.