Timmy the whale's last chance: Two millionaires finance a controversial rescue operation in the Baltic Sea
A humpback whale that captured the attention of the German public is getting one last chance at life after two multi-millionaires stepped in to finance the mission abandoned by the authorities, according to The Guardian.
The 12-tonne mammal, nicknamed Timmy, was first spotted last month near the town of Timmendorfer Strand on Germany's northern coast. After repeatedly floundering and being freed by rescuers, the whale became stranded again in shallow water.
The mammal arrived in the Baltic Sea probably following shoals of herring, but the low salinity of the water puts its life in danger, and it is already showing injuries.
While the authorities were ready to abandon the rescue of the animal, two multi-millionaires stepped in with funds for a last-minute mission, receiving the approval of the state.
But critics say rescue efforts have little chance of success and could even harm the whale. Despite the warnings, “Operation Cushion” was launched, a plan that involves clearing the mud and using air cushions to lift the whale onto a tarp.
The Greenpeace group criticized the operation, considering that the chances of survival are extremely low for the already emaciated animal. The organization cited scientific reports warning that the mission carries a high risk of injury
One of the billionaire sponsors, Walter Gunz, the founder of a chain of electronics stores, said the whale would have perished without this mobilization, adding to the DPA agency: “At least if you try, you have a chance to save it.”
If the rescue team manages to free him, Timmy will be towed into the North Sea and then into the Atlantic Ocean.
