The short-finned pilot whale Haitang gets released into the sea from a scientific research ship on Sunday morning. Photo: Xinhua

Divers and volunteers hold onto to guide ropes as a crane moves the whale to a vehicle for transport. Photo: VCG

The whale, which weighs over 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds), is lifted onto a truck via a sling attached to a crane on Saturday. Photo: VCG

Water is ladled over the whale, which is more than 12 feet long, while it is being transported. Photo: VCG

Haitang gets transferred onto the scientific research ship Li Yang 358 on Saturday in Sanya. Photo: VCG

Haitang swims in a tank at the Sanya Haichang Animal Conservation Center in South China's Hainan province on Jan. 8. Photo: Xinhua

A veterinarian sprays a medicinal solution on Haitang’s injuries on Jan. 8. Photo: VCG

Haitang was found stranded on Haitang Bay Beach on Jan. 3, prompting rescue personnel to help. Photo: VCG