Rescued humpback whale transported through Danish waters in German-led operation

A humpback whale named Timmy is being transported through Danish waters in a private rescue operation after stranding off the German coast near Lübeck in early March, German media report.

The whale, currently held in a water-filled barge towed by a tugboat, is expected to be released into the North Sea near the Atlantic Ocean on Saturday, according to the plan. The operation has drawn significant attention in Germany, with multiple news outlets tracking the whale’s journey via live updates.

Danish authorities have stated they will not assist if the whale strands again. In a response to German news agency dpa, obtained by Danish broadcaster DR, the Danish Ministry of Environment clarified that it does “not generally rescue stranded marine animals,” describing strandings as “a naturally occurring phenomenon.” The ministry added that whales should not be “rescued or disturbed by human intervention.”

However, the German-led rescue effort—organized by private donors—has faced criticism from experts. Specialists at the German Ocean Museum warn that releasing the whale in the North Sea could be fatal, as it may be too weak to swim long distances and risks drowning, Der Spiegel reports. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) echoed concerns, stating that “these measures, though well-intentioned, place significant additional strain on an already sick animal and are ultimately unlikely to be beneficial.”

Karin Walter-Mommert, one of the volunteers behind the operation, told German tabloid Bild that the whale has shown signs of improvement, singing “more melodically and powerfully” and appearing more active in its temporary pool.

The vessel Fortuna B, carrying the whale, is currently moving north through the Kattegat along Denmark’s eastern coast.