Stolen Idaho Heron Sculpture Returned

A stolen public art piece of a great blue heron valued at $3,000 has returned to its roost in northern Idaho.

The 3-foot heron made of scrap metal, steel and rebar perched on a basalt base in Coeur d’Alene disappeared two weeks ago after being broken off at the feet. Workers at The Olympia restaurant Saturday morning discovered the heron on its back on its old perch.

The Coeur d’Alene Press followed the heist with several stories quoting general dismay among residents.

Police said they didn’t have any leads and were too busy to check surveillance video.

The piece is one of 15 the city installed as part of its Art Currents project. Crews plan to reinstall the “Great Blue Heron” by Spokane, Wash., artist Rick Davis next week.