A global baleen whale famed for acrobatics, songs, and long migratory journeys.
Timmy, the whale tracked across the Baltic and Kattegat, has died after a long, contentious rescue effort. Officials say the animal likely died around May 6-7 while heading back toward the Baltic. An autopsy is pending; remains will be used for biodiesel and a Danish museum.
Humpback whales have surged from about 2,000 to 35,000 in roughly 40 years, drawing them into Rio’s Guanabara Bay. Tours with biologists onboard have grown, while researchers study migration patterns and the Abrolhos Bank habitat. A scientific expedition runs June 26–July 9 to map behavior and routes.
Scientists have been granted nearly £1m to study movement and breeding grounds of blue shark, porbeagle, and tope with tags, ultrasound, and angler workshops. Findings could update Red List guidance and improve survival rates for released sharks.