Nicknamed Timmy, it had been trapped in shallow waters since March. The partly privately funded rescue followed multiple failed attempts and public debate. Rescuers transported the weakened animal on a water-filled barge, with early signs showing it swimming independently after release.

Experts warn its health remains uncertain due to illness and prolonged exposure to low-salinity waters, which can weaken marine mammals. The whale will need time to readjust to ocean conditions, though the operation was widely seen as a breakthrough rescue effort.