The young humpback whale known as Timmy was released into North Sea waters on Saturday morning after a days-long tow from the German Baltic coast. Observers said the 12-meter (about 40-foot) whale left the specially outfitted, water-filled transport barge under his own power.
Timmy’s journey followed earlier, unsuccessful attempts to coax him back to sea, which resulted in restrandings and growing signs of distress. Rescue teams moved him closer to open ocean in hopes he could continue toward the Atlantic. A member of the team told AFP the whale initially appeared to be heading in the right direction, but experts warned his survival remains uncertain because his condition weakened during the weeks he spent stranded.
Marine biologist Fabian Ritter emphasized the risks involved: a whale that has been immobile on shore for weeks can suffer severe muscle stiffness and may not be able to swim normally right away. Rescuers often need to support such animals in deeper water until they can move naturally; otherwise a weakened whale can sink and suffocate, he said.
Timmy spent several days inside the water-filled barge during the transport. The operation was controversial: some environmental and animal-rights groups argued the whale was too compromised for a long sea tow and that the trip risked additional stress. German authorities had reportedly abandoned hopes of saving him in early April before approving the latest rescue plan under public pressure. The effort was funded by two private entrepreneurs.
The release took place roughly 70 kilometers (about 43.5 miles) off the Danish coast. Denmark’s Environment Ministry said it does not plan rescue actions if the whale beaches on Danish shores, describing beachings as a natural phenomenon and saying whales should not be interfered with or rescued automatically.
While Timmy’s departure from the barge is a hopeful sign, experts caution that only time will show whether he can recover fully and make the long journey back to the Atlantic.