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Rescuers Struggle to Free Stranded Whale Off Germany’s Baltic Coast

Authorities say the 10-meter animal, likely a young humpback, shows signs of weakness during complex rescue work.

Overview

  • A roughly 10-meter whale remains stuck on a sandbank off Niendorf on Germany’s Baltic coast after attempts to refloat it failed.
  • Rescue teams used boats to generate waves with drones guiding the effort and volunteers assisting, yet towing is ruled out to avoid injury.
  • Responders cut away parts of a fishing net that had wrapped around the whale’s body.
  • Reports from Sea Shepherd and NDR say it is likely a young humpback that is alive, weak, and making deep, muffled sounds.
  • Police put up fences to keep onlookers back as experts continue to assess why it stranded.