Rescuers to use air cushions in latest effort to save stranded whale
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Rescuers plan to use air cushions to refloat a stranded humpback whale, nicknamed Timmy, off Germany's northern coast after weeks stuck in shallow waters near the island of Poel.
- The minimally invasive method involves lifting the whale by its flippers onto a tarp attached to a tug boat, aiming to guide it through Denmark's coastline into the North Sea and possibly the Atlantic.
- The whale is severely weakened with a critical prognosis, but authorities believe this new approach offers a chance of survival, despite previous failed rescue attempts and expert concerns.
- The whale's plight has drawn international attention and public sympathy, but authorities warn against misinformation and urge respect for emergency services and protective measures.
- Greenpeace Germany and wildlife experts have expressed skepticism about the latest rescue attempt due to the whale's poor health and visible injuries, including skin detachments and entanglement in netting.
