This is an update on the young humpback whale that has repeatedly stranded in the Baltic Sea. Scientists now deem a live rescue off Poel island too risky as its condition has worsened sharply. Self-liberation is unlikely, and Environment Minister Till Backhaus rules out euthanasia.
The humpback whale, previously rescued near Timmendorfer Strand and observed stranding again in Wismarbucht, has been stranded for days on a sandbank off Poel island in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It has wandered the Baltic Sea for several weeks, outside its natural habitat. At a press conference on Poel, Stephanie Groß from the Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW) reported the whale's skin condition has deteriorated further, with visible tearing. Lifting it with straps or ropes risks peeling off the skin.
Less water now surrounds the whale, indicating possible organ damage, Groß added. Director of the German Maritime Museum Burkard Baschek noted the current water level at 1.40 meters; self-liberation would require an additional 60 centimeters. Forecasts predict no rise over the next four days, but a slight decline.
Environment Minister Till Backhaus (SPD) ruled out euthanasia, stating, "I cannot reconcile that with my conscience." Scientists warned that any intervention could cause hours of severe pain, with death potentially taking several days.
