Humpback 'Timmy' Still Alive Near Wismar
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A humpback whale stranded in shallow water off the northern Baltic port of Wismar was still alive on April 6, 2026, breathing at roughly two- to four-minute intervals, authorities reported. The animal, dubbed "Timmy" by local media, is about 12 meters (around 40 feet) long and has been trapped in the shallow area since last week.
Police and environmental teams kept watch overnight but saw no signs of recovery. Rescue operations were suspended on Wednesday after specialists judged that the whale’s chances of survival were poor. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania’s Environment Minister Till Backhaus said the Baltic Sea’s unusually low salinity is placing significant physiological stress on the animal, which normally lives in saltier waters.
Officials and animal welfare groups remain concerned and teams continue to monitor Timmy while authorities weigh next steps. The prolonged stranding, combined with the region’s atypical conditions, has prompted close observation and consultation among responders.