Which McDonald's advertising mascot was introduced in 1971 as a burger thief?

The Hamburglar was the McDonald's advertising mascot introduced in 1971 as a burger thief.

The character became part of McDonaldland, a fictional setting populated by colorful figures connected with the restaurant chain. In early portrayals, the Hamburglar was a small, mischievous character whose main goal was to steal hamburgers.

His appearance changed substantially over the years. The original version was more childlike and mysterious, while later advertising presented a taller character wearing a black-and-white striped outfit and cape. These redesigns reflected changes in McDonald's advertising aimed at children and families.

The Hamburglar is sometimes confused with Captain Crook, another McDonaldland character. Captain Crook was associated with Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, while the Hamburglar's defining theme was hamburgers.