About the Narwhal

Often called "the unicorns of the sea," Narwhals are distinguished by a long, spiral tusk protruding from their heads, which is actually an elongated tooth. This remarkable spiralled tooth can grow up to 10 feet long in males, whereas females sometimes have smaller tusks or none at all.

Narwhals feed on fish, squid, and shrimp, including Arctic cod and Greenland halibut. They are social animals, typically found in groups called pods. These pods can range from a few individuals to several dozen. They are known for their seasonal migrations, moving between coastal summer feeding grounds and deeper, offshore wintering grounds.

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Narwhals are somewhat elusive and less well-known than other whales, making them less commonly observed.

Vulnerable to climate change, as well as to potential threats from oil and gas development, and from indigenous communities hunting them for subsistence.

The reduction in sea ice affects their habitat and may expose them to more predation and human interactions.

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