Stranded whale shows signs of recovery as German rescue efforts continue

A whale that became stranded in shallow waters off Germany’s Baltic Sea coast has begun showing increased activity after rising water levels improved conditions for rescue operations, according to Bild, which cited sources involved in the operation.

The whale, nicknamed Timmy by rescuers, had been stuck near the island of Poel, where fluctuating sea conditions and dense seabed soil had complicated extraction efforts. On April 19, dredging operations slowed after rescue equipment struggled to reach the animal’s location, though access was restored later in the day.

Despite a rise in water levels overnight, the whale initially remained within the bay and was unable to return to deeper waters unaided.

By the morning of April 20, however, rescue teams reported that the animal had become more active.

“Timmy had become more active than before,” rescuers said, as efforts to guide the whale toward open sea resumed.

Two inflatable boats from the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) are taking part in the operation, later joined by jet skis assisting in steering the animal toward the bay’s exit. A tracking sensor has also been attached to monitor its movements.

According to rescuers, the whale is generally heading in the direction of the North Sea, although it has repeatedly changed course, paused, and veered off track.

Experts remain cautiously optimistic that the animal may be able to navigate into deeper waters independently and continue its migration toward the Atlantic Ocean.

By Sabian Mammadli