A private rescue attempt for a whale stranded off Germany's Baltic coast has entered a "decisive phase", with the animal showing more activity than in recent days. The 13.5-metre (44-foot) humpback whale's ordeal began in late March when it was spotted stuck on a sandbank near Luebeck. Earlier this month, officials predicted that the animal would die due to its weakened body. However, a last-minute rescue effort was approved by two entrepreneurs and involves lifting the whale using inflatable cushions and transporting it with pontoons. The rescue team is proceeding cautiously to prevent further distress.