Humpback whale spotted near Aarhus Ø

A humpback whale has been seen swimming unusually close to shore at Aarhus Ø, according to Danish broadcaster DR.

Steffen Nelausen, a hearing specialist, spotted the whale from his fourth-floor balcony on Thursday morning. He described it as a “wild experience,” estimating the animal was about 50 metres away.

Marine biologist and Kattegatcentret curator Rune Kristiansen said it is unusual for a humpback whale to be so close to land, suggesting the animal may be ill. He noted visible skin disease on more than half of its back, indicating poor health.

The same whale was likely spotted near Lillebælt three weeks ago, Kristiansen added, as the skin condition makes it easily identifiable. It has also been seen previously near Norway and Scotland.

Kristiansen urged the public to keep their distance, warning that close contact stresses the animal and poses a risk to humans due to the whale’s powerful fins and tail.