The bear is back.
Merced’s Applegate Zoo, one of the city’s oldest and most beloved public spaces, has replaced the custom wooden sign that was stolen earlier this year.
Crafted in the silhouette of a bear, the design includes a stag standing in a forest while a bird of prey soars overhead.
In a Facebook video posted this week, Merced Parks and Recreation Director Chris Jensen confirmed the new sign has been installed.
The piece wasn’t just a decoration. It represented a broader effort to redefine the zoo as a regional wildlife rescue and education center, supported by $1.8 million in recently approved pandemic recovery funds.
The replacement sign cost just under $4,000, including installation, according to Merced spokesperson Jennifer Flachman.
“The cost of the replacement sign was covered entirely by community donations,” she said. “We were overwhelmed, in the best way, by how quickly residents and supporters stepped up to bring the sign back.”
Located on the west side of Applegate Park near Bear Creek and R Street, the zoo has undergone several upgrades in the past year.
The new logo was part of a rebranding initiative meant to showcase animals native to Merced County and inspire environmental learning for future generations.
The sign was installed on the R Street side of the building. But sometime in the early hours of February 16, it vanished.
Its disappearance sparked a swift and very public response. Councilmembers Mike Harris and Sarah Boyle each offered $250, totaling a $500 reward for information leading to the return of the sign.
The city may have turned the page with a new sign, but Flachman said the original incident remains unresolved and is still worth pursuing.
“Although our focus is forward-facing, we have received ongoing support from Merced Police to continue the search for the original as a point of principle, to hold those accountable and reduce the likelihood of this happening to another business,” Flachman said.
She also noted that the police department sponsored new security cameras now operating at the zoo as part of a broader effort to protect ongoing public investments in the space.
The response wasn’t just about replacing a sign, according to Flachman, who said it was a reflection of how much the community values Applegate Zoo as a part of Merced’s shared story.
“The quick response, both from our community and from the City, really reflects how deeply Applegate Zoo is woven into Merced’s identity,” she said. “We see this as a perfect kickoff to long-term improvements already in the works, and a reminder that when it comes to places our residents care about, we show up.”
It’s not the first time the park has dealt with an unusual theft. In December, someone stole a rocket car from Kiddieland’s amusement rides.A Good Samaritan later returned it.
Three years ago, a commemorative plaque was taken from the statue honoring Steven Stayner and Timothy White. That plaque has never been recovered.
The Merced Police Department continues to seek leads about the stolen sign. Anyone with information is encouraged to call (209) 385-6905.