Humpback whale in the Baltic Sea: Whale sighted off the German Baltic coast near Heiligenhafen

A large whale has been spotted near Heiligenhafen on Germany's Baltic Sea coast, according to reports from local authorities. The sighting occurred between 12:00 and 14:00 on Thursday, July 17, 2026. Officials at the German Maritime Museum received two sightings, though the quality of the visual and video material was insufficient to confirm whether the animal was the same one previously observed near Denmark. The description of its size and general appearance suggested it could be the same individual. In recent weeks, a humpback whale had been sighted along the Danish Baltic coastline, including near Aarhus. Earlier observations had taken place between Jutland and the island of Funen, where the whale’s behavior and physical condition indicated possible illness. Danish environmental authorities urged the public to maintain a safe distance from the animal. On the evening of the same day, the Ministry of Environment in Schleswig-Holstein confirmed the sighting of a humpback whale at the mouth of the Kiel Bay. According to officials, it likely was the same animal previously observed in Scotland and Denmark. The whale had spent some time in shallower waters before moving slowly back toward open sea. However, it remained unclear whether this was the same whale seen near Heiligenhafen. The ministry emphasized that while the presence of the whale was notable, it did not yet justify state intervention. Authorities advised the public to keep a safe distance and to report any strandings to local authorities. They warned that close maritime traffic around the area posed a significant stress factor for marine life and should be avoided. As a result, the ministry decided against closer monitoring of the animal. Whales are protected wildlife species and move freely through the seas, explained the ministry. A mere sighting does not necessarily indicate distress or require government action. The likelihood of a stranding depends on many factors and cannot be reliably predicted beforehand. To ensure rapid assessment and decision-making in case of a stranding, the region has established a reporting chain. If another stranding occurs, officials will quickly consult with scientific experts, police, and other relevant authorities, such as the affected municipality. Each stranding must be considered individually, as they vary greatly in circumstances. Generally, maintaining a large distance from the animal is crucial to avoid disturbing it. Earlier this year, a humpback whale had traveled into German waters and was repeatedly stranded under public attention. A private initiative transported the whale named “Timmy” in a specially built boat to the North Sea and released it there. Experts criticized this action as animal cruelty. The whale survived briefly but was found dead near the Danish island of Anholt in mid-May.