Whale stranded off Germany swims to freedom after days of efforts to save it

A humpback whale stranded off the Baltic Sea coast of Niendorf, Germany, since Monday freed itself and swam into deeper waters on Friday after days of rescue efforts. The approximately 10-meter whale, initially stuck in shallow water, was aided by rescuers who used boats and excavators to create a path. Although mostly freed from a fishing net, the whale is reportedly weak, zigzagging, and suffering from a skin disease. Vessels, including water police, are escorting the whale, hoping to guide it through the straits between Germany, Denmark, and Sweden towards its natural habitat in the Atlantic Ocean. Experts caution that the whale is still at risk of becoming stranded again and faces a long journey to recovery.

A humpback whale stranded near Lübeck, Germany, since last Monday, freed itself from a sandbank after rescue efforts. The whale, measuring 12-15m, was initially spotted near Timmendorfer Strand. Rescue teams, including biologist Robert Marc Lehmann, made several attempts throughout the week, eventually using diggers to dredge a channel. On Friday morning, it was discovered the whale had swum off the sandbank and into deeper water, escorted by boats including the coast guard. Although still in Lübeck Bay, the whale appeared to be moving away from the sandbanks, raising hopes it will reach the wider Baltic Sea. Rescuers were unable to attach a tracker due to the whale's condition and netting lodged in its mouth.

Rescuers are working to save a humpback whale stranded on a sandbank in Lübeck Bay, off Germany's north coast, since Monday. The whale, estimated to be 12-15 meters long and weighing 15 tons, is believed to be a young male that may have become disoriented or was seeking a final resting place. Diggers are dredging a channel to deeper waters, but previous efforts to move the whale have failed. The whale is reportedly stressed, not feeding, and has rope stuck in its mouth, possibly from a fishing net. Marine biologists have assessed the whale's condition, noting its responsiveness but weakened state, and the rescue mission is being livestreamed. Despite the challenging conditions and slim chances of success, rescuers are continuing their efforts.