The dead humpback whale known as Timmy was towed ashore on the Danish island of Anholt on Saturday for a postmortem examination, officials said [1, 2]. Timmy had been drifting near Anholt for more than two weeks after multiple failed rescue attempts in the Baltic Sea off Germany earlier this year [1, 2].
Timmy first became stranded in the Baltic Sea close to Germany in March 2026, prompting rescue efforts including inflatable cushions and a floating platform, but all attempts failed by early May [1]. After being released near Denmark about 70 kilometers from Germany, the whale’s carcass was found drifting near Anholt in early August, where it remained until recently [1, 2].
The whale was originally between 12 and 15 meters (40-50 feet) long and showed signs of skin damage believed linked to the Baltic Sea’s low salt content [1]. The carcass has swollen considerably from decomposition gases, raising concerns it could explode if disturbed [1, 2].
Efforts to tow Timmy to a mainland Danish port before bringing it ashore failed due to bad weather conditions, leading to the decision to pull the carcass directly onto the island beach with industrial equipment [1]. Authorities have urged the public not to approach the remains due to strong odors and possible infection risks. Peter Teglberg Madsen of the Danish environment agency warned, "Because the animal has been lying in the sun for so long, it will smell terribly. It will be quite overwhelming if you’re not used to it" [2].
The exact path Timmy took from Germany to Anholt remains unclear [1]. After the postmortem, scheduled for Thursday on or around August 24, the whale will be cut into pieces and removed for disposal [1].
