ruth901
Environmentalists rely on closeness to animalsWhale Guru sings for stranded Timmy
The case of the stranded humpback whale off the island of Poel moves people around the world.
The situation is particularly emotionally accompanied by the Peruvian animal rights activist and writer Sergio Bambaren, who is part of the private rescue initiative. He tries to give the weakened animal peace and trust in the midst of the complex rescue work – including through closeness, calm gestures and even singing.
Hope for “Timmy” is growing
The young humpback whale, called Timmy by helpers, has been stuck in Wismar Bay for almost a month. There were repeated setbacks in the rescue attempts – but now the tide could be turning. A specially equipped barge is on the way to Wismar and will enable the whale to be transported.
The concept: The whale is maneuvered into a kind of floating steel tank that is filled with water. It will then be taken more than 400 kilometers to the North Sea – back to its actual home.
The man who sings for Timmy
In the middle of the rescue operation, one name in particular is attracting attention: Sergio Bambaren. The Peruvian author and animal rights activist accompanies the rescue intensively – and uses an unusually emotional approach.
Reading tip: Now a whale guru from Peru should help!
Bambaren consciously seeks proximity to the whale, speaks calmly to it and even sings to calm the animal. For many, this seems like an almost spiritual connection between humans and animals
“The most important thing for me is to make eye contact. So to make sure that everything is okay with the eyes,” explains Bambaren. “It’s all good, but I just have to be sure.”
Recommendations from our partners
Video tip: Now the whale team is tearing itself apart!
Proximity instead of hectic
While cranes, boats and experts work on the technical rescue, Bambaren is focused on the whale's well-being. His calm presence is intended to reduce stress and create trust – a crucial factor in this exceptional situation.
For many observers, he has long since become a key emotional figure. He is already being celebrated as a “whale guru” on social networks.
Reading tip: Whale Whisperer is with Timmy the whole time
It is still uncertain whether Timmy will survive the dramatic rescue operation. But one thing is certain: the fight for the young humpback whale has touched people all over the world – and shows how far some will go to save an animal's life. (mel)
Sources used: dpa, RTL research
