Question: what is a narwhal tusk made of

What is a narwhal tusk made of? - The Super Fins What is a narwhal tusk made of?
What is a narwhal tusk made of?
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 What is a narwhal tusk made of? - The Super Fins
What is a narwhal tusk made of? September 5, 2017
Get your copy of “Albert the Orca Teaches Echolocation to The Super Fins” beginning March 2017 at TheSuperFins.com. The tusk of a narwhal is actually a long tooth that has grown beyond the jawline, erupting from the head of the animal and growing up to 9 feet (2.7 m). Like the teeth of other mammals, the tusk/tooth is made of ivory. Known as the “Sea Unicorn” and “Unicorn of the Ocean” and just about any other unicorn allusion, the Narwhal (Monodon monoceros) is famous for it’s long, protruding tooth that appears to be a tusk or horn. The narwhal only has two teeth. In females, neither tooth extends beyond the gumline. In males, however, the right tooth will typically remain embedded in the gum, but the left tooth will grow and extend out of the mouth in a spiral that can be up to 9 feet long (2.7 m). Occassionally the second tooth will grow beyond the jawline, and it isn’t uncommon to find a narwhal with two tusks, though they are rare.

What is a narwhal tusk made of? - The Super Fins

What is a narwhal tusk made of?
What is a narwhal tusk made of?
Tweet

What is a narwhal tusk made of? - The Super Fins
What is a narwhal tusk made of? September 5, 2017
Get your copy of “Albert the Orca Teaches Echolocation to The Super Fins” beginning March 2017 at TheSuperFins.com. The tusk of a narwhal is actually a long tooth that has grown beyond the jawline, erupting from the head of the animal and growing up to 9 feet (2.7 m). Like the teeth of other mammals, the tusk/tooth is made of ivory. Known as the “Sea Unicorn” and “Unicorn of the Ocean” and just about any other unicorn allusion, the Narwhal (Monodon monoceros) is famous for it’s long, protruding tooth that appears to be a tusk or horn. The narwhal only has two teeth. In females, neither tooth extends beyond the gumline. In males, however, the right tooth will typically remain embedded in the gum, but the left tooth will grow and extend out of the mouth in a spiral that can be up to 9 feet long (2.7 m). Occassionally the second tooth will grow beyond the jawline, and it isn’t uncommon to find a narwhal with two tusks, though they are rare.

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Walrus and Narwhal Tusks
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We Buy Ivory Tusks – Estate purchases
Walrus Tusks - Odobenus rosmarus
Walrus Skulls
Walrus Oosik
Walrus Teeth
Narwhal Tusk - Monodon monoceros
Muskox Horns - Ovibos moschatus
Whale Baleen - Bowhead whale - Balaena mysticetus
Sperm Whale Teeth - Physeter macrocephallus
Mammoth Tusk
Mammoth Slabs
Pre-ban Elephant Tusk
Ivory Art
Working with Ivory
Regulations
Ordering these Materials
Links of Interest:
 The tusk is a beautiful spiral of varying tones of white. Narwhal tusks occur on males – rarely on females. Very rarely there are double tusks on one male. The narwhal tusk consists of an outer cementum layer and one inside dentine layer. Inside the dentine is a pulp cavity that extends down most of the length of the tusk, narrowing in diameter and finally disappearing towards the tip of the tusk. Other than tusks, the narwhal has no other teeth. Through history the narwhal tusk has been associated with the unicorn and has been associated with mystical properties. It was said for example in Viking days that a cup made from the tusk of a narwhal would save the owner from poisoning by his enemies. There is much speculation on the purpose of narwhal tusks in nature. Suggestions have been made including mate attraction, communication and determining water temperature and maybe salinity.

Canadian Ivory - Walrus, Narwhal, Mammoth and Elephant Tusk for Sale

Canadian Ivory Inc.
Canadian Ivory Inc.
Walrus and Narwhal Tusks
Index - Material For Sale
What we offer for sale
We Buy Ivory Tusks – Estate purchases
Walrus Tusks - Odobenus rosmarus
Walrus Skulls
Walrus Oosik
Walrus Teeth
Narwhal Tusk - Monodon monoceros
Muskox Horns - Ovibos moschatus
Whale Baleen - Bowhead whale - Balaena mysticetus
Sperm Whale Teeth - Physeter macrocephallus
Mammoth Tusk
Mammoth Slabs
Pre-ban Elephant Tusk
Ivory Art
Working with Ivory
Regulations
Ordering these Materials
Links of Interest:

The tusk is a beautiful spiral of varying tones of white. Narwhal tusks occur on males – rarely on females. Very rarely there are double tusks on one male. The narwhal tusk consists of an outer cementum layer and one inside dentine layer. Inside the dentine is a pulp cavity that extends down most of the length of the tusk, narrowing in diameter and finally disappearing towards the tip of the tusk. Other than tusks, the narwhal has no other teeth. Through history the narwhal tusk has been associated with the unicorn and has been associated with mystical properties. It was said for example in Viking days that a cup made from the tusk of a narwhal would save the owner from poisoning by his enemies. There is much speculation on the purpose of narwhal tusks in nature. Suggestions have been made including mate attraction, communication and determining water temperature and maybe salinity.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 Scientists have studied a few skulls of female narwhals in their collection. These small, unerupted tusks serve a purpose that is yet to be discovered. Ever wondered why whales slap their tails? Check this article I have written to find out why. What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of? Narwhal horns are made of ivory and are similar to the tusk of an elephant. The outer cementum layer of the narwhal’s tusk is porous. Its inner dentin layer has microscopic tubes that are found in the middle section. The pulp is in the center and has nerve endings connected to the brain of the animal. Because of this structure, the tusk is very sensitive to temperature and chemical differences in the environment.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?

Scientists have studied a few skulls of female narwhals in their collection. These small, unerupted tusks serve a purpose that is yet to be discovered. Ever wondered why whales slap their tails? Check this article I have written to find out why. What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of? Narwhal horns are made of ivory and are similar to the tusk of an elephant. The outer cementum layer of the narwhal’s tusk is porous. Its inner dentin layer has microscopic tubes that are found in the middle section. The pulp is in the center and has nerve endings connected to the brain of the animal. Because of this structure, the tusk is very sensitive to temperature and chemical differences in the environment.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 Narwhal horns are made of ivory and are similar to the tusk of an elephant. The outer cementum layer of the narwhal’s tusk is porous. Its inner dentin layer has microscopic tubes that are found in the middle section. The pulp is in the center and has nerve endings connected to the brain of the animal. Because of this structure, the tusk is very sensitive to temperature and chemical differences in the environment. Unlike human teeth, the narwhal’s tusk is built from the inside out. It is soft on the outside and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. This makes them the opposite of our teeth. On the surface of the tusk are millions of holes. We also have these holes in our teeth, which make them sensitive to cold food or drinks.

Narwhal horns are made of ivory and are similar to the tusk of an elephant. The outer cementum layer of the narwhal’s tusk is porous. Its inner dentin layer has microscopic tubes that are found in the middle section. The pulp is in the center and has nerve endings connected to the brain of the animal. Because of this structure, the tusk is very sensitive to temperature and chemical differences in the environment. Unlike human teeth, the narwhal’s tusk is built from the inside out. It is soft on the outside and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. This makes them the opposite of our teeth. On the surface of the tusk are millions of holes. We also have these holes in our teeth, which make them sensitive to cold food or drinks.

27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They're Real): All Your Questions Answered | Everywhere Wild 27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They’re Real): All Your Questions Answered
27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They’re Real): All Your Questions Answered
Table of Contents
The Modern Unicorn
27 Narwhal Facts: Your Questions Answered
1. Are Narwhals Real?
2. Do Narwhals Still Exist?
3. Are Narwhals Close to Extinction?
4. What is a Narwhal's Horn Made of? Ivory?
5. What is the Purpose of a Narwhal Tusk?
6. Do Narwhal Horns Grow Back?
7. Do Female Narwhals Have Tusks?
8. Is There a Two Tusked Narwhal?
9. Do Narwhals Need to Breathe Air?
10. How Long Can Narwhals Stay Underwater?
11. Do Narwhals Sleep?
12. How Long do Narwhal Whales Live?
13. What Threats do Narwhals Face?
14. What Eats a Narwhal? (Predators of the Narwhal)
15. Is it Legal to Hunt Narwhals?
16. What do Narwhals Eat?
17. How Much Does a Narwhal Eat in a Day?
18. Where do Narwhals Live?
19. Do Narwhals Have Blubber? How Much?
20. How Much Does a Narwhal Weigh?
21. How Long is a Narwhal?
22. Do Narwhals Make Sounds? Do They Echolocate?
23. Are There Any Narwhals in Captivity?
24. Are Narwhals Aggressive to Humans?
25. What is the Narwhal's Latin Name?
26. Are Narwhals Whales or Dolphins?
27. So, is a Narwhal a Unicorn?
Nifty Narwhals
9 Awesome Narwhal Products (I love #6!)
1. Narwhals: Arctic Whales in a Melting World
2. Narwhal Pajamas
3. Narwhal Storybook
4. Narwhal Notebook
5. Narwhal Slippers
6. Narwhal Coffee Mug
7. Narwhal Pushpins
8. Plush Narwhal
9. Narwhal Candy (No Narwhals Were Harmed…)
Okay, I'm done 😊
Drew Haines
jude
Nolan
jalen
Pascal
opal
 What is a Narwhal's Horn Made of? Ivory? Yes, the narwhal's tusk is ivory. However, the “horn” or “tusk” is actually a tooth. Narwhals only have two teeth. But in males, one tooth grows through his upper lip and into a spiraling tusk that gets up to 8.8 feet (2.6 meters) long. This can also happen in females, but it is rare and not as prominent as the males (learn more in #7 ). Very rarely, narwhals will actually have two horns. This occurs when both teeth grow through the upper lip (learn more in #8)
Hank Green over at SciShow puts it well when he says that the narwhal's horn is “the craziest snaggle-tooth ever.” 5.

27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They're Real): All Your Questions Answered | Everywhere Wild

What is a Narwhal's Horn Made of? Ivory? Yes, the narwhal's tusk is ivory. However, the “horn” or “tusk” is actually a tooth. Narwhals only have two teeth. But in males, one tooth grows through his upper lip and into a spiraling tusk that gets up to 8.8 feet (2.6 meters) long. This can also happen in females, but it is rare and not as prominent as the males (learn more in #7 ). Very rarely, narwhals will actually have two horns. This occurs when both teeth grow through the upper lip (learn more in #8)
Hank Green over at SciShow puts it well when he says that the narwhal's horn is “the craziest snaggle-tooth ever.” 5.

Canadian Ivory - Walrus, Narwhal, Mammoth and Elephant Tusk for Sale Canadian Ivory Inc.
Canadian Ivory Inc.
Walrus and Narwhal Tusks
Index - Material For Sale
What we offer for sale
We Buy Ivory Tusks – Estate purchases
Walrus Tusks - Odobenus rosmarus
Walrus Skulls
Walrus Oosik
Walrus Teeth
Narwhal Tusk - Monodon monoceros
Muskox Horns - Ovibos moschatus
Whale Baleen - Bowhead whale - Balaena mysticetus
Sperm Whale Teeth - Physeter macrocephallus
Mammoth Tusk
Mammoth Slabs
Pre-ban Elephant Tusk
Ivory Art
Working with Ivory
Regulations
Ordering these Materials
Links of Interest:
 There is only a small porous core that leaves plenty of thickness for carving or shaping. Walrus Teeth
These walrus teeth are located behind the primary tusks (behind the canine teeth). Ranging in size from 2 to 5 cm (1 to 2 1/2 ") long they are used for micro-carving, small scrimshaw and jewelry. In wood working they are used sliced in inlay or in mask making. Narwhal Tusk - Monodon monoceros

The narwhal tusk (see picture of cross section) is formed from a modified left upper incisor tooth. The tusk is a beautiful spiral of varying tones of white. Narwhal tusks occur on males – rarely on females. Very rarely there are double tusks on one male. The narwhal tusk consists of an outer cementum layer and one inside dentine layer. Inside the dentine is a pulp cavity that extends down most of the length of the tusk, narrowing in diameter and finally disappearing towards the tip of the tusk.

There is only a small porous core that leaves plenty of thickness for carving or shaping. Walrus Teeth
These walrus teeth are located behind the primary tusks (behind the canine teeth). Ranging in size from 2 to 5 cm (1 to 2 1/2 ") long they are used for micro-carving, small scrimshaw and jewelry. In wood working they are used sliced in inlay or in mask making. Narwhal Tusk - Monodon monoceros

The narwhal tusk (see picture of cross section) is formed from a modified left upper incisor tooth. The tusk is a beautiful spiral of varying tones of white. Narwhal tusks occur on males – rarely on females. Very rarely there are double tusks on one male. The narwhal tusk consists of an outer cementum layer and one inside dentine layer. Inside the dentine is a pulp cavity that extends down most of the length of the tusk, narrowing in diameter and finally disappearing towards the tip of the tusk.

22 Astonishing Narwhal Facts - Fact Animal Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Profile
Narwhal Facts Overview
Interesting Narwhal Facts
1. In 1577 the English explorer Martin Frobisher laid eyes on a dead narwhal, describing it as a ‘sea-unicorn’.
2. Both male & females are born with two small teeth embedded in their skulls, but only in males does the front left tooth grow into a spiral tusk.
3. Around 1 in 500 narwhal males have two tusks.
4. The tusk is an ‘ivory’ canine tooth, that spirals out of the upper left side of the jaw.
5. Their tusks primarily relate to mating, in a similar way to an antlers of a stag.
6. Narwhals use their tusks to hunt for fish.
7. Their tusks exhibit sensory ability, due to nerve endings enabling it to detect water-salinity changes.
8. They suck prey into their mouths and swallow them whole.
9. Females will give birth to a calf once every 3 years.
10. Narwhals regularly spend their winter in Davis Strait and Baffin Bay, which has less than 5% open water, due to pack ice.
11. Narwhals are among the deepest diving animals in the world. They can dive up to 1.8 kilometers (1.1 mile) in depth, without returning to the surface for breath, for over 25 minutes.
12. They have evolved to withstand incredible water pressure.
13. The origin of the name narwhal comes from the Icelandic words ‘nar’, meaning ‘corpse’ (in reference to its pale white color), and hvalr (whale).
14. They are rarely ever seen by humans.
15. Narwhal travel in pods between 2-3 to several hundred.
16. Narwhals are about 50% body fat and their blubber is 3-4 inches thick.
17. Narwhals are vulnerable to ice entrapment (‘Sassats’).
18. Their major predators are polar bears, which attack them at breathing holes.
19. Queen Elizabeth I is said to have spent £10,000 on a narwhal tusk (the equivalent to £2m today), and had it placed within the crown jewels.
20. Narwhal tusks are highly prized by collectors, and can fetch up to £10,000 each.
21. Hunting of narwhals in Canada and Greenland is legal by Canadian Inuit and Greenland hunters (to help support their traditions & communities).
22. Climate change is the primary threat to narwhals.
Narwhal Fact-File Summary
Scientific Classification
Fact Sources & References
 Polar Bears, Sharks, Walruses, Killer Whales & Humans
Top Speed: 4 kph (1 meter per second)
No. of Species: 1
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Narwhal are warm blooded, air breathing mammals, and members of the order Artiodactyla and family Monodontidae, which also includes the unusual, dorsal fin-lacking, pure white beluga whale. The narwhal tusk is made of ivory, and is actually a tooth, that spirals out of the upper left side of the jaw and through their lip. They can extend up to 10 feet (3 meters) long and weigh as much as 22 pounds (10 kg). The narwhal averages between 13 to 18 feet (4 to 5.5 meters) in length excluding the males spiral tusk, and weighs 1,760 to 3,530 pounds (800 to 1,600 kg ). Narwhal live in the cracks of dense pack ice for most of the year in the Greenlandic and Canadian Arctic. Like most whales Narwhal, have predictable migration patterns.

22 Astonishing Narwhal Facts - Fact Animal

Polar Bears, Sharks, Walruses, Killer Whales & Humans
Top Speed: 4 kph (1 meter per second)
No. of Species: 1
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Narwhal are warm blooded, air breathing mammals, and members of the order Artiodactyla and family Monodontidae, which also includes the unusual, dorsal fin-lacking, pure white beluga whale. The narwhal tusk is made of ivory, and is actually a tooth, that spirals out of the upper left side of the jaw and through their lip. They can extend up to 10 feet (3 meters) long and weigh as much as 22 pounds (10 kg). The narwhal averages between 13 to 18 feet (4 to 5.5 meters) in length excluding the males spiral tusk, and weighs 1,760 to 3,530 pounds (800 to 1,600 kg ). Narwhal live in the cracks of dense pack ice for most of the year in the Greenlandic and Canadian Arctic. Like most whales Narwhal, have predictable migration patterns.

22 Astonishing Narwhal Facts - Fact Animal Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Profile
Narwhal Facts Overview
Interesting Narwhal Facts
1. In 1577 the English explorer Martin Frobisher laid eyes on a dead narwhal, describing it as a ‘sea-unicorn’.
2. Both male & females are born with two small teeth embedded in their skulls, but only in males does the front left tooth grow into a spiral tusk.
3. Around 1 in 500 narwhal males have two tusks.
4. The tusk is an ‘ivory’ canine tooth, that spirals out of the upper left side of the jaw.
5. Their tusks primarily relate to mating, in a similar way to an antlers of a stag.
6. Narwhals use their tusks to hunt for fish.
7. Their tusks exhibit sensory ability, due to nerve endings enabling it to detect water-salinity changes.
8. They suck prey into their mouths and swallow them whole.
9. Females will give birth to a calf once every 3 years.
10. Narwhals regularly spend their winter in Davis Strait and Baffin Bay, which has less than 5% open water, due to pack ice.
11. Narwhals are among the deepest diving animals in the world. They can dive up to 1.8 kilometers (1.1 mile) in depth, without returning to the surface for breath, for over 25 minutes.
12. They have evolved to withstand incredible water pressure.
13. The origin of the name narwhal comes from the Icelandic words ‘nar’, meaning ‘corpse’ (in reference to its pale white color), and hvalr (whale).
14. They are rarely ever seen by humans.
15. Narwhal travel in pods between 2-3 to several hundred.
16. Narwhals are about 50% body fat and their blubber is 3-4 inches thick.
17. Narwhals are vulnerable to ice entrapment (‘Sassats’).
18. Their major predators are polar bears, which attack them at breathing holes.
19. Queen Elizabeth I is said to have spent £10,000 on a narwhal tusk (the equivalent to £2m today), and had it placed within the crown jewels.
20. Narwhal tusks are highly prized by collectors, and can fetch up to £10,000 each.
21. Hunting of narwhals in Canada and Greenland is legal by Canadian Inuit and Greenland hunters (to help support their traditions & communities).
22. Climate change is the primary threat to narwhals.
Narwhal Fact-File Summary
Scientific Classification
Fact Sources & References
 The narwhal tusk is made of ivory, and is actually a tooth, that spirals out of the upper left side of the jaw and through their lip. They can extend up to 10 feet (3 meters) long and weigh as much as 22 pounds (10 kg). The narwhal averages between 13 to 18 feet (4 to 5.5 meters) in length excluding the males spiral tusk, and weighs 1,760 to 3,530 pounds (800 to 1,600 kg ). Narwhal live in the cracks of dense pack ice for most of the year in the Greenlandic and Canadian Arctic. Like most whales Narwhal, have predictable migration patterns. However, unlike some whale species, they don’t ever leave the Arctic waters. They make annual migrations from high Arctic summering grounds in coastal bays of West Greenland and Canada, to offshore wintering grounds in deeper waters. This is to avoid being trapped by fast ice, and stay close to easy sources of food. Narwhal eat flatfish and halibut during the restricted winter months, which can both be found on the bottom of the sea in the Baffin Bay and Davis Strait. During the summer months they can consume cod and halibut, and will also consume cuttlefish, shrimp and squid where possible.

The narwhal tusk is made of ivory, and is actually a tooth, that spirals out of the upper left side of the jaw and through their lip. They can extend up to 10 feet (3 meters) long and weigh as much as 22 pounds (10 kg). The narwhal averages between 13 to 18 feet (4 to 5.5 meters) in length excluding the males spiral tusk, and weighs 1,760 to 3,530 pounds (800 to 1,600 kg ). Narwhal live in the cracks of dense pack ice for most of the year in the Greenlandic and Canadian Arctic. Like most whales Narwhal, have predictable migration patterns. However, unlike some whale species, they don’t ever leave the Arctic waters. They make annual migrations from high Arctic summering grounds in coastal bays of West Greenland and Canada, to offshore wintering grounds in deeper waters. This is to avoid being trapped by fast ice, and stay close to easy sources of food. Narwhal eat flatfish and halibut during the restricted winter months, which can both be found on the bottom of the sea in the Baffin Bay and Davis Strait. During the summer months they can consume cod and halibut, and will also consume cuttlefish, shrimp and squid where possible.

Narwhal - Description, Habitat, Image, Diet, and Interesting Facts Narwhal
Narwhal
Description of the Narwhal
Interesting Facts About the Narwhal
Habitat of the Narwhal
Distribution of the Narwhal
Diet of the Narwhal
Narwhal Tusk Purpose
Narwhal and Human Interaction
Domestication
Does the Narwhal Make a Good Pet
Narwhal Care
Behavior of the Narwhal
Reproduction of the Narwhal
Beliefs, Superstitions, and Phobias About the Narwhal
 However, these beautiful marine mammals are more than just a pretty sight to behold. The “Horn” Isn’t a Horn at All! – True horns are made of keratin with a bony center, but a narwhal’s horn is actually a modified tooth. This makes the “horn” a tusk! The tusk is a canine tooth that juts straight through the upper lip. The Cost of Sound – Narwhals, along with many other marine mammal species, communicate and navigate using sound. Unfortunately, the more ships and aquatic equipment there are in the ocean, the more sound there is as well. This increase in sound can interfere with marine mammals’ ability to hear one another, and to navigate using echolocation. Graying with Age – The color of a narwhal’s skin changes as it gets older. The babies start out a blue/gray color, and become darker as they reach sexual maturity.

Narwhal - Description, Habitat, Image, Diet, and Interesting Facts

Narwhal
Narwhal
Description of the Narwhal
Interesting Facts About the Narwhal
Habitat of the Narwhal
Distribution of the Narwhal
Diet of the Narwhal
Narwhal Tusk Purpose
Narwhal and Human Interaction
Domestication
Does the Narwhal Make a Good Pet
Narwhal Care
Behavior of the Narwhal
Reproduction of the Narwhal
Beliefs, Superstitions, and Phobias About the Narwhal

However, these beautiful marine mammals are more than just a pretty sight to behold. The “Horn” Isn’t a Horn at All! – True horns are made of keratin with a bony center, but a narwhal’s horn is actually a modified tooth. This makes the “horn” a tusk! The tusk is a canine tooth that juts straight through the upper lip. The Cost of Sound – Narwhals, along with many other marine mammal species, communicate and navigate using sound. Unfortunately, the more ships and aquatic equipment there are in the ocean, the more sound there is as well. This increase in sound can interfere with marine mammals’ ability to hear one another, and to navigate using echolocation. Graying with Age – The color of a narwhal’s skin changes as it gets older. The babies start out a blue/gray color, and become darker as they reach sexual maturity.

27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They're Real): All Your Questions Answered | Everywhere Wild 27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They’re Real): All Your Questions Answered
27 Awesome Narwhal Facts (Yes, They’re Real): All Your Questions Answered
Table of Contents
The Modern Unicorn
27 Narwhal Facts: Your Questions Answered
1. Are Narwhals Real?
2. Do Narwhals Still Exist?
3. Are Narwhals Close to Extinction?
4. What is a Narwhal's Horn Made of? Ivory?
5. What is the Purpose of a Narwhal Tusk?
6. Do Narwhal Horns Grow Back?
7. Do Female Narwhals Have Tusks?
8. Is There a Two Tusked Narwhal?
9. Do Narwhals Need to Breathe Air?
10. How Long Can Narwhals Stay Underwater?
11. Do Narwhals Sleep?
12. How Long do Narwhal Whales Live?
13. What Threats do Narwhals Face?
14. What Eats a Narwhal? (Predators of the Narwhal)
15. Is it Legal to Hunt Narwhals?
16. What do Narwhals Eat?
17. How Much Does a Narwhal Eat in a Day?
18. Where do Narwhals Live?
19. Do Narwhals Have Blubber? How Much?
20. How Much Does a Narwhal Weigh?
21. How Long is a Narwhal?
22. Do Narwhals Make Sounds? Do They Echolocate?
23. Are There Any Narwhals in Captivity?
24. Are Narwhals Aggressive to Humans?
25. What is the Narwhal's Latin Name?
26. Are Narwhals Whales or Dolphins?
27. So, is a Narwhal a Unicorn?
Nifty Narwhals
9 Awesome Narwhal Products (I love #6!)
1. Narwhals: Arctic Whales in a Melting World
2. Narwhal Pajamas
3. Narwhal Storybook
4. Narwhal Notebook
5. Narwhal Slippers
6. Narwhal Coffee Mug
7. Narwhal Pushpins
8. Plush Narwhal
9. Narwhal Candy (No Narwhals Were Harmed…)
Okay, I'm done 😊
Drew Haines
jude
Nolan
jalen
Pascal
opal
 No, as of May 2018. The narwhal has been classified as ‘ least concern ,' which means that they have been evaluated but do not fit into any of the other categories (extinct, extinct in the wild, critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, or conservation dependent). This has been updated from December of 2017 when they were classified as ‘ near threatened ,' which means that it may be considered threatened with extinction in the near future, but doesn't qualify right now. So, in view of this update, things are looking up for our real-life unicorn! 🦄😄
4. What is a Narwhal's Horn Made of? Ivory? Yes, the narwhal's tusk is ivory. However, the “horn” or “tusk” is actually a tooth. Narwhals only have two teeth.

No, as of May 2018. The narwhal has been classified as ‘ least concern ,' which means that they have been evaluated but do not fit into any of the other categories (extinct, extinct in the wild, critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, or conservation dependent). This has been updated from December of 2017 when they were classified as ‘ near threatened ,' which means that it may be considered threatened with extinction in the near future, but doesn't qualify right now. So, in view of this update, things are looking up for our real-life unicorn! 🦄😄
4. What is a Narwhal's Horn Made of? Ivory? Yes, the narwhal's tusk is ivory. However, the “horn” or “tusk” is actually a tooth. Narwhals only have two teeth.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 Unlike human teeth, the narwhal’s tusk is built from the inside out. It is soft on the outside and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. This makes them the opposite of our teeth. On the surface of the tusk are millions of holes. We also have these holes in our teeth, which make them sensitive to cold food or drinks. However, our teeth are covered with hard enamel. The tusk of a narwhal is sensitive, and scientists believe this would be similar to having your nerves exposed. Since narwhals live in the Arctic, these nerves are always exposed to these icy waters. Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From? The narwhal horn is actually the left canine tooth that protrudes from the head of a male.

Unlike human teeth, the narwhal’s tusk is built from the inside out. It is soft on the outside and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. This makes them the opposite of our teeth. On the surface of the tusk are millions of holes. We also have these holes in our teeth, which make them sensitive to cold food or drinks. However, our teeth are covered with hard enamel. The tusk of a narwhal is sensitive, and scientists believe this would be similar to having your nerves exposed. Since narwhals live in the Arctic, these nerves are always exposed to these icy waters. Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From? The narwhal horn is actually the left canine tooth that protrudes from the head of a male.

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 Other than tusks, the narwhal has no other teeth. Through history the narwhal tusk has been associated with the unicorn and has been associated with mystical properties. It was said for example in Viking days that a cup made from the tusk of a narwhal would save the owner from poisoning by his enemies. There is much speculation on the purpose of narwhal tusks in nature. Suggestions have been made including mate attraction, communication and determining water temperature and maybe salinity. Living in a hostile arctic, ice ridden environment it is important to be able to source open water for breathing. It is not thought that the tusks are used in fighting. Just recently, a video was taken showing a narwhal fiercely wagging its tusk in the vicinity of a fish. The object was to stun the fish for food. Skull of female narwhal showing 25 cm (10") residual tusk on the left side.

Other than tusks, the narwhal has no other teeth. Through history the narwhal tusk has been associated with the unicorn and has been associated with mystical properties. It was said for example in Viking days that a cup made from the tusk of a narwhal would save the owner from poisoning by his enemies. There is much speculation on the purpose of narwhal tusks in nature. Suggestions have been made including mate attraction, communication and determining water temperature and maybe salinity. Living in a hostile arctic, ice ridden environment it is important to be able to source open water for breathing. It is not thought that the tusks are used in fighting. Just recently, a video was taken showing a narwhal fiercely wagging its tusk in the vicinity of a fish. The object was to stun the fish for food. Skull of female narwhal showing 25 cm (10") residual tusk on the left side.

Narwhal - Description, Habitat, Image, Diet, and Interesting Facts Narwhal
Narwhal
Description of the Narwhal
Interesting Facts About the Narwhal
Habitat of the Narwhal
Distribution of the Narwhal
Diet of the Narwhal
Narwhal Tusk Purpose
Narwhal and Human Interaction
Domestication
Does the Narwhal Make a Good Pet
Narwhal Care
Behavior of the Narwhal
Reproduction of the Narwhal
Beliefs, Superstitions, and Phobias About the Narwhal
 They have a torpedo-shaped body, which is more hydrodynamic, allowing them to move through the water more swiftly. Male narwhals have a long “horn” growing through their upper lip, this is actually a tusk, which can be up to 10 feet long! Females can also grow tusks, albeit shorter than the males. Interesting Facts About the Narwhal
These creatures look interesting before we even learn anything about them. With spotted skin and a long, elegant horn, they are the epitome of intrigue. However, these beautiful marine mammals are more than just a pretty sight to behold. The “Horn” Isn’t a Horn at All! – True horns are made of keratin with a bony center, but a narwhal’s horn is actually a modified tooth. This makes the “horn” a tusk! The tusk is a canine tooth that juts straight through the upper lip.

They have a torpedo-shaped body, which is more hydrodynamic, allowing them to move through the water more swiftly. Male narwhals have a long “horn” growing through their upper lip, this is actually a tusk, which can be up to 10 feet long! Females can also grow tusks, albeit shorter than the males. Interesting Facts About the Narwhal
These creatures look interesting before we even learn anything about them. With spotted skin and a long, elegant horn, they are the epitome of intrigue. However, these beautiful marine mammals are more than just a pretty sight to behold. The “Horn” Isn’t a Horn at All! – True horns are made of keratin with a bony center, but a narwhal’s horn is actually a modified tooth. This makes the “horn” a tusk! The tusk is a canine tooth that juts straight through the upper lip.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 However, our teeth are covered with hard enamel. The tusk of a narwhal is sensitive, and scientists believe this would be similar to having your nerves exposed. Since narwhals live in the Arctic, these nerves are always exposed to these icy waters. Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From? The narwhal horn is actually the left canine tooth that protrudes from the head of a male. The horn can grow as long as nine feet. A male narwhal normally measures about 15 feet long at maturity. The right canine stays embedded, and no other teeth protrude from the mouth. Narwhals do not have any other teeth. Instead of chewing their prey, they use suction to swallow them whole.

However, our teeth are covered with hard enamel. The tusk of a narwhal is sensitive, and scientists believe this would be similar to having your nerves exposed. Since narwhals live in the Arctic, these nerves are always exposed to these icy waters. Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From? The narwhal horn is actually the left canine tooth that protrudes from the head of a male. The horn can grow as long as nine feet. A male narwhal normally measures about 15 feet long at maturity. The right canine stays embedded, and no other teeth protrude from the mouth. Narwhals do not have any other teeth. Instead of chewing their prey, they use suction to swallow them whole.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 Narwhal tusks are unique since it is the only straight tusk in the world. Tusks of other animals such as elephants and rhinos are usually curved. The horn is also unique in that it is the only animal with spiral teeth. The left tooth comes out of the jaw like a corkscrew through the lip. Sometimes you can find a male narwhal with two tusks. This happens when the right tooth grows into a tusk also. However, when the right tusks grow, it usually does not look like the first tusk. It is usually shorter, although it spirals in the same way to the left. Narwhal’s tusks are very flexible and not as hard as you would imagine. The tusk can be bent about a foot in any direction, and it would not break.

Narwhal tusks are unique since it is the only straight tusk in the world. Tusks of other animals such as elephants and rhinos are usually curved. The horn is also unique in that it is the only animal with spiral teeth. The left tooth comes out of the jaw like a corkscrew through the lip. Sometimes you can find a male narwhal with two tusks. This happens when the right tooth grows into a tusk also. However, when the right tusks grow, it usually does not look like the first tusk. It is usually shorter, although it spirals in the same way to the left. Narwhal’s tusks are very flexible and not as hard as you would imagine. The tusk can be bent about a foot in any direction, and it would not break.

Unicorn Whale - Unicorns Rule! Unicorn Whale (Narwhal)
Unicorn Whale (Narwhal)
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 The study conducted in 1978 found that the Arctic cod made up approximately 51% of the diet of the narwhals, with the next most common animal being the Greenland halibut (consisting of 37% of the weight of their diet). Deep-water fish such as halibut, redfish and polar cod have also been found in the diet of the males. This means that the narwhals can dive deeper than 1,600 ft (500 m) below sea level. The study also found that the dietary needs of the narwhal did not change among genders or ages. Narwhal Tusks
The most prominent feature of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is actually a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip and forms a left-handed helix spiral. Their tusks grow throughout their life, reaching lengths from roughly 4 ft 11in to 10 ft 2in (1.5 to 3.1 m). The tusk is actually hollow and weighs around 22 lbs (10 kg). Some males (about one in 500) has two tusks. This occurs when the right canine also grows out through the lip. Females sometimes grow tusks as well.

Unicorn Whale - Unicorns Rule!

Unicorn Whale (Narwhal)
Unicorn Whale (Narwhal)
Brief Description of the Unicorn Whale or Narwhal
What do Narwahl Eat?
Narwhal Tusks
Where Do Narwhal Live?
Are Narwhals Endangered?

The study conducted in 1978 found that the Arctic cod made up approximately 51% of the diet of the narwhals, with the next most common animal being the Greenland halibut (consisting of 37% of the weight of their diet). Deep-water fish such as halibut, redfish and polar cod have also been found in the diet of the males. This means that the narwhals can dive deeper than 1,600 ft (500 m) below sea level. The study also found that the dietary needs of the narwhal did not change among genders or ages. Narwhal Tusks
The most prominent feature of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is actually a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip and forms a left-handed helix spiral. Their tusks grow throughout their life, reaching lengths from roughly 4 ft 11in to 10 ft 2in (1.5 to 3.1 m). The tusk is actually hollow and weighs around 22 lbs (10 kg). Some males (about one in 500) has two tusks. This occurs when the right canine also grows out through the lip. Females sometimes grow tusks as well.

Narwhal Tusk Research -- About the Tusk About the Tusk
 Fetal narwhal initially develop six pairs of maxillary or upper teeth and two pairs of mandibular or lower teeth. Only one pair from the maxillary jaw develop and the others are vestigial. Tusk length, girth, morphology, wear and coloration are all quite variable. Male tusks are usually longer and have a wide variation in ridge morphology, often appearing as a gently wavelike form when looking down the horizontal axis. Female tusks are shorter, straighter, have a more regularly defined morphology, and do not collect as much proteinacious or algae on the surface, thus appearing whiter. Often associated with the horn of the unicorn, the narwhal tooth has found its way into the books of scientific rarities and mythical tales, and has inspired legend and lore. So prized was the fabled tooth of the unicorn that in the 16th century Queen Elizabeth paid 10,000 pounds — equivalent to the cost of an entire castle — for one. The tooth is revered by many cultures around the world. In Japan two crossed narwhal teeth adorn the entrance to the Korninkaku Palace, and in Denmark multiple teeth comprise the frame. The royal scepter in England is made from the rare tusk.

Narwhal Tusk Research -- About the Tusk

Fetal narwhal initially develop six pairs of maxillary or upper teeth and two pairs of mandibular or lower teeth. Only one pair from the maxillary jaw develop and the others are vestigial. Tusk length, girth, morphology, wear and coloration are all quite variable. Male tusks are usually longer and have a wide variation in ridge morphology, often appearing as a gently wavelike form when looking down the horizontal axis. Female tusks are shorter, straighter, have a more regularly defined morphology, and do not collect as much proteinacious or algae on the surface, thus appearing whiter. Often associated with the horn of the unicorn, the narwhal tooth has found its way into the books of scientific rarities and mythical tales, and has inspired legend and lore. So prized was the fabled tooth of the unicorn that in the 16th century Queen Elizabeth paid 10,000 pounds — equivalent to the cost of an entire castle — for one. The tooth is revered by many cultures around the world. In Japan two crossed narwhal teeth adorn the entrance to the Korninkaku Palace, and in Denmark multiple teeth comprise the frame. The royal scepter in England is made from the rare tusk.

Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know? | Arctic Kingdom Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know
Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know
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 While there is normally a hard coating of enamel, dentin, and cementum that shields the sensitive nerves, in fact, the narwhal tusk has nerves on the outside with the dense material on the inside of the hollow tusk and is used as a sensory organ. The tusk has millions of tiny holes and nerve endings on the surface of the tusk. Seawater enters tiny holes in the tusk that channels the water into a “sensory centre” at the base of the tusk. These nerve endings send valuable information to the brain giving it information on the water around them. These external stimuli provide vital knowledge for these Arctic whales. It’s believed that they can sense chemical changes in the water like the salt levels, temperatures, and water pressure while they’re migrating. And it’s also believed that they can sense chemicals released by potential mates. Now, they have been used for practical uses like the rare practice of tapping a fish to stun it when they eat. But primarily it is believed to be a guiding feature. That means that when they gently do rub tusks together, it’s possible that they are transferring important information about the water’s environment.

Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know? | Arctic Kingdom

Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know
Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know
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While there is normally a hard coating of enamel, dentin, and cementum that shields the sensitive nerves, in fact, the narwhal tusk has nerves on the outside with the dense material on the inside of the hollow tusk and is used as a sensory organ. The tusk has millions of tiny holes and nerve endings on the surface of the tusk. Seawater enters tiny holes in the tusk that channels the water into a “sensory centre” at the base of the tusk. These nerve endings send valuable information to the brain giving it information on the water around them. These external stimuli provide vital knowledge for these Arctic whales. It’s believed that they can sense chemical changes in the water like the salt levels, temperatures, and water pressure while they’re migrating. And it’s also believed that they can sense chemicals released by potential mates. Now, they have been used for practical uses like the rare practice of tapping a fish to stun it when they eat. But primarily it is believed to be a guiding feature. That means that when they gently do rub tusks together, it’s possible that they are transferring important information about the water’s environment.

BBC - Earth - Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns
Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns
There's no such thing as a horse with a single horn that has magical powers. But these animals come surprisingly close
 They are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and conservationists are now striving to save them by appointing forest guards to crack down on illegal hunting. View image of A narwhal (Monodon monoceros) showing off its tusk (Credit: Eric Baccega/NPL)
3. Narwhal ( Monodon monoceros)
In tales of the unicorn, much is made of the horn's magical properties. In nature, the narwhal's is arguably the most magical, as it has remarkable sensory powers. The narwhal's tusk can grow to 2.6m (9ft) long, half as long as its body. It is actually not a horn, but an overgrown canine tooth that spirals counter-clockwise out of the left side of the animal's mouth. No one is sure what it is for. It could be used as an ice pick, helping narwhals travel through the icy Arctic waters, or an acoustic probe or even a lance to battle for mates. Tusks are more common among males, so many think it is a sexual characteristic, with the largest tusk indicating the healthiest male.

BBC - Earth - Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns

Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns
Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns
There's no such thing as a horse with a single horn that has magical powers. But these animals come surprisingly close

They are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and conservationists are now striving to save them by appointing forest guards to crack down on illegal hunting. View image of A narwhal (Monodon monoceros) showing off its tusk (Credit: Eric Baccega/NPL)
3. Narwhal ( Monodon monoceros)
In tales of the unicorn, much is made of the horn's magical properties. In nature, the narwhal's is arguably the most magical, as it has remarkable sensory powers. The narwhal's tusk can grow to 2.6m (9ft) long, half as long as its body. It is actually not a horn, but an overgrown canine tooth that spirals counter-clockwise out of the left side of the animal's mouth. No one is sure what it is for. It could be used as an ice pick, helping narwhals travel through the icy Arctic waters, or an acoustic probe or even a lance to battle for mates. Tusks are more common among males, so many think it is a sexual characteristic, with the largest tusk indicating the healthiest male.

Ivory Identification Guide - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Forensics Laboratory
 Click to see cross section of sperm whale tooth
NARWHAL
(Monodon monoceros)
The narwhale is a rarely seen arctic whale. The male of this species has a single left tusk that is a modified upper incisor. The tusk is spirally twisted, usually in an counter-clockwise direction. In a mature specimen the tusk can be from two to seven meters long. Enamel may be present at the tip of the tusk. The cementum frequently displays longitudinal cracks which follow the depressed areas of the spiral pattern. As a result, narwhal tusk cross-sections are rounded with peripheral indentations. The cementum is separated from the dentine by a clearly defined transition ring. Like killer and sperm whale teeth, the dentine can display prominent concentric rings. The pulp cavity extends throughout most of the length of the tusk giving cross-sections a hollow interior.

Ivory Identification Guide - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Forensics Laboratory

Click to see cross section of sperm whale tooth
NARWHAL
(Monodon monoceros)
The narwhale is a rarely seen arctic whale. The male of this species has a single left tusk that is a modified upper incisor. The tusk is spirally twisted, usually in an counter-clockwise direction. In a mature specimen the tusk can be from two to seven meters long. Enamel may be present at the tip of the tusk. The cementum frequently displays longitudinal cracks which follow the depressed areas of the spiral pattern. As a result, narwhal tusk cross-sections are rounded with peripheral indentations. The cementum is separated from the dentine by a clearly defined transition ring. Like killer and sperm whale teeth, the dentine can display prominent concentric rings. The pulp cavity extends throughout most of the length of the tusk giving cross-sections a hollow interior.

Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know? | Arctic Kingdom Narwhal Tusk Facts: Did You Know
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 They are darkest when they are younger and become whiter as they get older. The tail flukes, the two wings that form the tail flipper, of males have front edges that are more concave and lack a sweep-back shape found in females. This is thought to be an adaptation to overcome the drag caused by the tusk. Narwhal Tusks: Did You Know? Did you know that a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth? In fact, the scientific name is Monodon Monoceros which comes from the Greek meaning, “one-tooth one-horn.” The tusk is a canine tooth that protrudes through the lip and continuously grows throughout their lives reaching up to 10 ft / 3.5 m.
The narwhal tooth is the only straight tusk in the world, all other tusks are known to curve. While the tusk doesn’t curve, but it does form a spiral. It will always be a left-turning helix spiral.

They are darkest when they are younger and become whiter as they get older. The tail flukes, the two wings that form the tail flipper, of males have front edges that are more concave and lack a sweep-back shape found in females. This is thought to be an adaptation to overcome the drag caused by the tusk. Narwhal Tusks: Did You Know? Did you know that a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth? In fact, the scientific name is Monodon Monoceros which comes from the Greek meaning, “one-tooth one-horn.” The tusk is a canine tooth that protrudes through the lip and continuously grows throughout their lives reaching up to 10 ft / 3.5 m.
The narwhal tooth is the only straight tusk in the world, all other tusks are known to curve. While the tusk doesn’t curve, but it does form a spiral. It will always be a left-turning helix spiral.

BBC - Earth - The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out Eric Baccega/NPL)
"This tooth is almost like a piece of skin in the sense that it has all these sensory nerve endings," says Nweeia. That is not seen in other mammalian teeth except when they are diseased. In all the encounters I've had with them, they are beautiful… and quite graceful
The narwhal tusk is "essentially built inside out," says Nweeia. Unlike our own teeth, it is soft on the outside, and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. Nweeia's team showed that the tusk can sense changes in the salinity of the water, suggesting that it is a giant, antennae-like sensor. That is a little tricky to explain. " The tusk is most common in males and is only infrequently found in females," says Westdal. That suggests that it isn't "anything special required for survival", but is something to do with courtship and mating. They are not mutually exclusive explanations, says Nweeia. Tusks could be multifunctional:

BBC - Earth - The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out

The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out

Eric Baccega/NPL)
"This tooth is almost like a piece of skin in the sense that it has all these sensory nerve endings," says Nweeia. That is not seen in other mammalian teeth except when they are diseased. In all the encounters I've had with them, they are beautiful… and quite graceful
The narwhal tusk is "essentially built inside out," says Nweeia. Unlike our own teeth, it is soft on the outside, and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. Nweeia's team showed that the tusk can sense changes in the salinity of the water, suggesting that it is a giant, antennae-like sensor. That is a little tricky to explain. " The tusk is most common in males and is only infrequently found in females," says Westdal. That suggests that it isn't "anything special required for survival", but is something to do with courtship and mating. They are not mutually exclusive explanations, says Nweeia. Tusks could be multifunctional:

Narwhal Animal Facts - Unicorn of the Sea Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
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Unicorns Really Do Exist
Fast Facts: Narwhal
The Unicorn Horn
Description
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Lifespan and Conservation Status
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 The narwhal's tusk is on its left side. Males have the "horn," but only 15% of females have one. The Unicorn Horn
A male narwhal has a single long tusk. The tusk is a hollow left-handed spiral helix that grows from the left side of the upper jaw and through the whale's lip. The tusk grows throughout the whale's life, reaching a length from 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft) and weight of approximately 10 kg (22 lb). About 1 in 500 males has two tusks, with the other tusk formed from the right canine tooth. Around 15% of females have a tusk. Female tusks are smaller than those of males and not as spiralized. There is one recorded case of a female having two tusks. Initially, scientists speculated the male tusk might be involved in male sparring behavior, but the current hypothesis is that tusks are rubbed together to communicate information about the ocean environment.

Narwhal Animal Facts - Unicorn of the Sea

Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Unicorns Really Do Exist
Fast Facts: Narwhal
The Unicorn Horn
Description
Behavior
Lifespan and Conservation Status
References

The narwhal's tusk is on its left side. Males have the "horn," but only 15% of females have one. The Unicorn Horn
A male narwhal has a single long tusk. The tusk is a hollow left-handed spiral helix that grows from the left side of the upper jaw and through the whale's lip. The tusk grows throughout the whale's life, reaching a length from 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft) and weight of approximately 10 kg (22 lb). About 1 in 500 males has two tusks, with the other tusk formed from the right canine tooth. Around 15% of females have a tusk. Female tusks are smaller than those of males and not as spiralized. There is one recorded case of a female having two tusks. Initially, scientists speculated the male tusk might be involved in male sparring behavior, but the current hypothesis is that tusks are rubbed together to communicate information about the ocean environment.

BBC - Earth - The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out Maybe it is an aggressive weapon for narwhal-narwhal battles, or for fending off predators. It could also be an icebreaker, a digging tool, or a way to show off to females. To solve this puzzle, Nweeia has assembled a team that includes marine and developmental biologists, comparative zoologists, dentists, and orthopedic surgeons. In a 2014 study that is perhaps the most detailed and high-tech analysis of the tusk ever attempted, they concluded that it is a highly sensitive organ. View image of Narwhals (Monodon monoceros) are the "unicorns of the sea" (Credit: Eric Baccega/NPL)
"This tooth is almost like a piece of skin in the sense that it has all these sensory nerve endings," says Nweeia. That is not seen in other mammalian teeth except when they are diseased. In all the encounters I've had with them, they are beautiful… and quite graceful
The narwhal tusk is "essentially built inside out," says Nweeia. Unlike our own teeth, it is soft on the outside, and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. Nweeia's team showed that the tusk can sense changes in the salinity of the water, suggesting that it is a giant, antennae-like sensor.

Maybe it is an aggressive weapon for narwhal-narwhal battles, or for fending off predators. It could also be an icebreaker, a digging tool, or a way to show off to females. To solve this puzzle, Nweeia has assembled a team that includes marine and developmental biologists, comparative zoologists, dentists, and orthopedic surgeons. In a 2014 study that is perhaps the most detailed and high-tech analysis of the tusk ever attempted, they concluded that it is a highly sensitive organ. View image of Narwhals (Monodon monoceros) are the "unicorns of the sea" (Credit: Eric Baccega/NPL)
"This tooth is almost like a piece of skin in the sense that it has all these sensory nerve endings," says Nweeia. That is not seen in other mammalian teeth except when they are diseased. In all the encounters I've had with them, they are beautiful… and quite graceful
The narwhal tusk is "essentially built inside out," says Nweeia. Unlike our own teeth, it is soft on the outside, and gradually gets hard and dense on the inside. Nweeia's team showed that the tusk can sense changes in the salinity of the water, suggesting that it is a giant, antennae-like sensor.

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 Did you know that a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth? In fact, the scientific name is Monodon Monoceros which comes from the Greek meaning, “one-tooth one-horn.” The tusk is a canine tooth that protrudes through the lip and continuously grows throughout their lives reaching up to 10 ft / 3.5 m.
The narwhal tooth is the only straight tusk in the world, all other tusks are known to curve. While the tusk doesn’t curve, but it does form a spiral. It will always be a left-turning helix spiral. Even when a second tusk grows, both tusks spiral to the left. All narwhals have two canine teeth that can grow into their tusk, but generally, it’s the upper left tooth that grows. The tusk grows in most males and only about 15% of females. And about one in 500 males grow two tusks, and only one female has been recorded with two tusks. Why Do They Have Them?

Did you know that a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth? In fact, the scientific name is Monodon Monoceros which comes from the Greek meaning, “one-tooth one-horn.” The tusk is a canine tooth that protrudes through the lip and continuously grows throughout their lives reaching up to 10 ft / 3.5 m.
The narwhal tooth is the only straight tusk in the world, all other tusks are known to curve. While the tusk doesn’t curve, but it does form a spiral. It will always be a left-turning helix spiral. Even when a second tusk grows, both tusks spiral to the left. All narwhals have two canine teeth that can grow into their tusk, but generally, it’s the upper left tooth that grows. The tusk grows in most males and only about 15% of females. And about one in 500 males grow two tusks, and only one female has been recorded with two tusks. Why Do They Have Them?

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Based on a frame-by-frame dissection of the video, it appears that narwhals are using their iconic tusks to club and stun fish, which they then consume. The surprising behaviour is part of a growing picture of the feeding patterns of one of the most enigmatic of all whale species that could help inform efforts to conserve its habitat in the high Arctic. "It's fascinating … it really shows how agile they are with their tusks," said Marianne Marcoux, a senior scientist with DFO based in Winnipeg whose team gathered the video during a field expedition last August in Tremblay Sound, a narrow fjord on the north coast of Baffin Island. Dr. Marcoux, a narwhal expert who was not on the expedition, but who has carefully studied the video, said the whales may be employing the tusk-clobbering method in different ways depending on the number and species of fish they are pursuing. A scientific paper describing the find is being prepared for publication. A narwhal's tusk is actually a modified canine tooth that protrudes up to three metres from the left upper jaw and grows in a spiral pattern. Over the years, many theories have been proposed for why narwhals evolved such a distinct anatomical feature, including for digging on the sea floor or for combat with rivals. Because it is typically only males of the species who sport the tusk, scientists have long regarded its primary purpose to be an advertisement to females, similar to a peacock's tail. A 2014 study demonstrated the tusk may also serve as a sensory organ because it is not sealed in enamel like most mammal teeth and has a nerve fibre running through it that could be sensitive to chemical stimuli in seawater. The new find adds another dimension to the tusk – one that has not been recorded before because of the technical challenge of observing narwhals up close while they are going about their business in the ocean.

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Narwhals of the Arctic Facts and Adaptations - Monodon monoceros Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros
Medium sized toothed whales with just the single long tusk is present in males and about 15% of females. Animals of the far north and the original unicorns.
What are Narwhals like? how do they survive?
Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups.
Historically
Narwhal Adaptations:
 They can also be tracked by satellite transmitters attached to their backs. Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups. Narwhal Tusks
The most obvious and striking feature of narwhals is the tusk. This is an elongated canine tooth and is mainly found in males though around 15% of females also have a tusk albeit shorter and with a less pronounced spiral. The tusk is the left upper canine tooth and has a fairly tight left handed spiral which is thought to keep the tusk straight as it grows rather than curving as in other animals with tusks such as elephants and pigs which would cause problems when swimming. Very occasionally a male will grow two tusks, one from each side though the right tusk also has a left hand spiral rather than being a mirror image as might be expected, around 1 in 500 male narwhals have two tusks. The tusks don't grow out below the lip, they actually grow entirely horizontally in relation to the skull so actually break through the upper lip rather than emerging from the mouth as do other animals tusks. While the tusk is essentially a tooth it has a structure rather different to that of a typical tooth being sort of inside-out with the outside being porous and the hard, usually external enamel layer in the center the opposite way to your teeth. There is a pulp at the very center (like other mammalian teeth) which has blood vessels and nerves and in the order of ten million channels that allow sea-water to enter the tusk. The purpose of the tusk was for a long time unknown or at least unproven.

Narwhals of the Arctic Facts and Adaptations - Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros
Medium sized toothed whales with just the single long tusk is present in males and about 15% of females. Animals of the far north and the original unicorns.
What are Narwhals like? how do they survive?
Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups.
Historically
Narwhal Adaptations:

The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal | Britannica Blog The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal
The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal As a result, this whale of the Arctic remains an oddity and its tusk one of the great unsolved mysteries of the marine world. Folklore surrounding the narwhal is rooted in cultural and natural history. For instance, among the Inuit, an indigenous people of the Arctic, narwhals have long been hunted for food and for the ivory of their tusks. But the Inuit also have a legend about how the narwhal and its tusk came to be. According to the story, a cruel woman was persuaded by her son to tie the end of a harpoon rope around her waist. When he threw the weapon and successfully struck a large whale—which he had deliberately aimed to hit—she was pulled into the ocean. There, in the dark depths, she became a narwhal and bore a tusk formed from her hair, which had become twisted around the rope. The narwhal also was a subject of great speculation in Jules Verne ‘s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (originally published in 1870, as Vingt mille lieues sous les mers ). Even Ned Land, a character who claimed to have harpooned several large whales and initially refused to believe that Captain Nemo ‘s Nautilus was under attack by some sort of overgrown narwhal, came to believe that the creature possessed the inclination for running ships through with its tusk. Real narwhals reach lengths of about 11 to 17 feet and weigh roughly 2,200 (females) to 3,500 (males) pounds.

The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal | Britannica Blog

The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal
The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal

Narwhal - Wikipedia Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 The most conspicuous characteristic of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is in fact a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip, and forms a left-handed helix spiral. The tusk grows throughout life, reaching a length of about 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft). It is hollow and weighs around 10 kg (22 lb). About one in 500 males has two tusks, occurring when the right canine also grows out through the lip. Only about 15 percent of females grow a tusk which typically is smaller than a male tusk, with a less noticeable spiral. Collected in 1684, there is only one known case of a female growing a second tusk (image). Scientists have long speculated on the biological function of the tusk. Proposed functions include use of the tusk as a weapon, for opening breathing holes in sea ice, in feeding, as an acoustic organ, and as a secondary sex character. The leading theory has long been that the narwhal tusk serves as a secondary sex character of males, for nonviolent assessment of hierarchical status on the basis of relative tusk size. However, detailed analysis reveals that the tusk is a highly innervated sensory organ with millions of nerve endings connecting seawater stimuli in the external ocean environment with the brain.

Narwhal - Wikipedia

Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links

The most conspicuous characteristic of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is in fact a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip, and forms a left-handed helix spiral. The tusk grows throughout life, reaching a length of about 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft). It is hollow and weighs around 10 kg (22 lb). About one in 500 males has two tusks, occurring when the right canine also grows out through the lip. Only about 15 percent of females grow a tusk which typically is smaller than a male tusk, with a less noticeable spiral. Collected in 1684, there is only one known case of a female growing a second tusk (image). Scientists have long speculated on the biological function of the tusk. Proposed functions include use of the tusk as a weapon, for opening breathing holes in sea ice, in feeding, as an acoustic organ, and as a secondary sex character. The leading theory has long been that the narwhal tusk serves as a secondary sex character of males, for nonviolent assessment of hierarchical status on the basis of relative tusk size. However, detailed analysis reveals that the tusk is a highly innervated sensory organ with millions of nerve endings connecting seawater stimuli in the external ocean environment with the brain.

8 Fun Facts about Narwhals | Sport Diver 8 Fun Facts about Narwhals
8 Fun Facts about Narwhals 8 Fun Facts about Narwhals | Sport Diver
8 Fun Facts about Narwhals
The narwhal male's tusk — which is is hollow and weighs around 22 pounds — grows throughout its life. age fotostock / Alamy Stock Photo
Like the walrus and elephant, this arctic whale has a majestic quality to it because of its regal-looking tusk. In medieval times, its tusk was often presented to important people as a unicorn’s horn. Here are eight more fun facts about this beautiful whale. 1. Its closest living relative is the beluga, but unlike belugas, narwhals (or narwhales) possess a tusk that is actually a tooth. It is a front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. 2. The tusk, which grows throughout the narwhal’s life, can reach 10 feet long (regulation basketball hoops are 10 feet tall).

8 Fun Facts about Narwhals | Sport Diver

8 Fun Facts about Narwhals
8 Fun Facts about Narwhals

8 Fun Facts about Narwhals | Sport Diver
8 Fun Facts about Narwhals
The narwhal male's tusk — which is is hollow and weighs around 22 pounds — grows throughout its life. age fotostock / Alamy Stock Photo
Like the walrus and elephant, this arctic whale has a majestic quality to it because of its regal-looking tusk. In medieval times, its tusk was often presented to important people as a unicorn’s horn. Here are eight more fun facts about this beautiful whale. 1. Its closest living relative is the beluga, but unlike belugas, narwhals (or narwhales) possess a tusk that is actually a tooth. It is a front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. 2. The tusk, which grows throughout the narwhal’s life, can reach 10 feet long (regulation basketball hoops are 10 feet tall).

Narwhal - Wikipedia Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Tusk
This narwhal skull has rare double tusks. Usually, the canine tooth only on the left side of the upper jaw becomes a tusk. Rarely, males develop two tusks. This specimen, however, was of a female (Zoologisches Museum, Hamburg; collected in 1684). The most conspicuous characteristic of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is in fact a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip, and forms a left-handed helix spiral. The tusk grows throughout life, reaching a length of about 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft). It is hollow and weighs around 10 kg (22 lb). About one in 500 males has two tusks, occurring when the right canine also grows out through the lip. Only about 15 percent of females grow a tusk which typically is smaller than a male tusk, with a less noticeable spiral.

Narwhal - Wikipedia

Tusk
This narwhal skull has rare double tusks. Usually, the canine tooth only on the left side of the upper jaw becomes a tusk. Rarely, males develop two tusks. This specimen, however, was of a female (Zoologisches Museum, Hamburg; collected in 1684). The most conspicuous characteristic of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is in fact a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip, and forms a left-handed helix spiral. The tusk grows throughout life, reaching a length of about 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft). It is hollow and weighs around 10 kg (22 lb). About one in 500 males has two tusks, occurring when the right canine also grows out through the lip. Only about 15 percent of females grow a tusk which typically is smaller than a male tusk, with a less noticeable spiral.

Narwhal Tusks - Narwhal Tusks for Sale - Narwhal Tusk Sales & Information Narwhal Tusk Sales & Info
Narwhal Tusk Sales & Info
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Trapline Tales: Ski Doos and Marten Scent
Narwhals Use Their Tusks to Club and Stun Prey, Scientists Discover
Narwhal Tusk Behaviour
Ex-Mountie Who Smuggled Narwhal Tusks Extradited to U.S.
Eating Seal Meat Is a Vital Part of Life in My Community
Narwhal Tagging 2014: Polar Bear Watch
Narwhal Tagging 2014: Elusive Whales
Narwhal Tagging 2014: Where Have They Gone?
Narwhal's Trademark Tusk Acts Like a Sensor, Scientist Says
Alaska Narwhal Tusk Bust Leads to International Smuggling Ring
How an Ex-Mountie’s 10-year Narwhal-Tusk Smuggling Scheme Came Crashing Down
Narwhal 2013: Stranded in a Small Arctic Town
Narwhal 2013: Finally at Base Camp
Narwhal 2013: First Sighting of Narwhals for Research
Narwhal 2013: One Final Research Push
Hunters Fined $80K for Hunting Without Export Permits
Russians Say Canadian Documents Help Polar Bear Poachers
Polar Bear Hunt Ends in Fines
Mexicans Fined for Trying to Export Polar Bears
Mexican Polar Bear Hunters Fined $80K
Illegal Trophy Export Attempt of Arctic Trophies Costs Mexican Hunters $80,000
News: Officials Crack Canadian-U.S. Narwhal Smuggling Ring
News: Alleged Narwhal-Tusk Smuggling Operation Smashed in Joint Canada-U.S. Effort
News: Narwhal Tusk Ban Partially Lifted
 A narwhal's tusk is actually a modified canine tooth that protrudes up to three metres from the left upper jaw and grows in a spiral pattern. Over the years, many theories have been proposed for why narwhals evolved such a distinct anatomical feature, including for digging on the sea floor or for combat with rivals. Because it is typically only males of the species who sport the tusk, scientists have long regarded its primary purpose to be an advertisement to females, similar to a peacock's tail. A 2014 study demonstrated the tusk may also serve as a sensory organ because it is not sealed in enamel like most mammal teeth and has a nerve fibre running through it that could be sensitive to chemical stimuli in seawater. The new find adds another dimension to the tusk – one that has not been recorded before because of the technical challenge of observing narwhals up close while they are going about their business in the ocean. [ View the Video, and Read More ]
Ex-Mountie Who Smuggled Narwhal Tusks Extradited to U.S.
By Bobbi-Jean MacKinnon, CBC News | Posted: Mar 17, 2016
A retired RCMP officer, already convicted and sentenced in New Brunswick for smuggling narwhal tusks across the border, has been extradited to the United States to face related money-laundering charges in Maine. Gregory Logan, 58, of Woodmans Point, N.B., was ordered Wednesday by a U.S. judge to be held in custody pending his trial, scheduled for May 3 in U.S. District Court in Bangor. Prosecutors allege Logan smuggled at least 250 narwhal tusks worth more than $2 million US in

27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals - FactsKing.com 27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
Physical and Scientific Characteristics of Narwhal
Narwhal Distribution
Narwhal Behaviour and Diet
Interesting Facts about Narwhals
 This is the front tooth that protrudes beyond the upper lip. It grows throughout the narwhal’s life and can be as long as 10 feet. After maturing, it grows and spirals towards the left. Unlike most mammalian teeth, they have a soft outer layer and a tough inner core. Some species can have a rare second tusk (usually one in 500 males). Contrary to males, only 15% of females grow a tusk which is often smaller than that of the male. The tusk is also considered to be a sensory organ that contains millions of nerves. This provides the narwhal with information regarding the environment it is in. Narwhals are known to rub their tusks with each other as means of communication. Narwhals can also use the tusk to stun any fish by tapping them so that feeding is made easier.

27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals - FactsKing.com

27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
Physical and Scientific Characteristics of Narwhal
Narwhal Distribution
Narwhal Behaviour and Diet
Interesting Facts about Narwhals

This is the front tooth that protrudes beyond the upper lip. It grows throughout the narwhal’s life and can be as long as 10 feet. After maturing, it grows and spirals towards the left. Unlike most mammalian teeth, they have a soft outer layer and a tough inner core. Some species can have a rare second tusk (usually one in 500 males). Contrary to males, only 15% of females grow a tusk which is often smaller than that of the male. The tusk is also considered to be a sensory organ that contains millions of nerves. This provides the narwhal with information regarding the environment it is in. Narwhals are known to rub their tusks with each other as means of communication. Narwhals can also use the tusk to stun any fish by tapping them so that feeding is made easier.

Narwhals of the Arctic Facts and Adaptations - Monodon monoceros Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros
Medium sized toothed whales with just the single long tusk is present in males and about 15% of females. Animals of the far north and the original unicorns.
What are Narwhals like? how do they survive?
Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups.
Historically
Narwhal Adaptations:
 Very occasionally a male will grow two tusks, one from each side though the right tusk also has a left hand spiral rather than being a mirror image as might be expected, around 1 in 500 male narwhals have two tusks. The tusks don't grow out below the lip, they actually grow entirely horizontally in relation to the skull so actually break through the upper lip rather than emerging from the mouth as do other animals tusks. While the tusk is essentially a tooth it has a structure rather different to that of a typical tooth being sort of inside-out with the outside being porous and the hard, usually external enamel layer in the center the opposite way to your teeth. There is a pulp at the very center (like other mammalian teeth) which has blood vessels and nerves and in the order of ten million channels that allow sea-water to enter the tusk. The purpose of the tusk was for a long time unknown or at least unproven. That only males always have fully developed tusks indicates that there is some element of sexual selection in its function in that the tusk somehow enables males to compete for access to females. There is no evidence to show that male narwhals use the tusks to fence in duels with each other as once thought, though males have been seen touching their tusks with other males in non-combative interactions. It is possible that the tusks are largely for show only when it comes to mate selection like a peacock's tail. It has been suggested that they may be used to break ice or spear prey (how will it get it off?) though there is no evidence for either of these things.

Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose | Tech Times Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose
Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose | Tech Times
Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose
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James Maynard, Tech Times 20 March 2014, 05:03 am
Narwhals are the Unicorns of the sea - and now, researchers know why the whales sport that distinctive horn. Narwhals are toothed whales, and the horn of the male can grow to be as long as eight-and-a-half feet long. The unusual feature is the left canine tooth of the males, which breaks through the upper lip of the male. It is sometimes used in contests between males to win mates, but it does not primarily serve a defensive purpose. Although biologists knew this much about the horn of narwhals, theories of how the animals used the body part differed greatly. Some biologists believed the horns are used for ice picks, while others said the horns picked up noises deep under water. Researchers discovered the horn is, in fact, used as a sensory organ. Unlike most mammal teeth, the horn of a narwhal is not protected by enamel. Sea water enters the horn through cementum channels, which are also present in human teeth. The liquid then travels through a network of tubules to the center of the tooth, heading base of the tusk.

Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose | Tech Times

Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose
Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose

Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose | Tech Times
Narwhal tusk - Scientists finally solve its real purpose
Facebook
facebook
Twitter
twitter
Reddit
reddit
Comment
LinkedIn
linkedin
Email
Email
WhatsApp
What's app
Digg
digg
James Maynard, Tech Times 20 March 2014, 05:03 am
Narwhals are the Unicorns of the sea - and now, researchers know why the whales sport that distinctive horn. Narwhals are toothed whales, and the horn of the male can grow to be as long as eight-and-a-half feet long. The unusual feature is the left canine tooth of the males, which breaks through the upper lip of the male. It is sometimes used in contests between males to win mates, but it does not primarily serve a defensive purpose. Although biologists knew this much about the horn of narwhals, theories of how the animals used the body part differed greatly. Some biologists believed the horns are used for ice picks, while others said the horns picked up noises deep under water. Researchers discovered the horn is, in fact, used as a sensory organ. Unlike most mammal teeth, the horn of a narwhal is not protected by enamel. Sea water enters the horn through cementum channels, which are also present in human teeth. The liquid then travels through a network of tubules to the center of the tooth, heading base of the tusk.

The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal | Britannica Blog The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal
The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal | Britannica Blog
The Legend and Mystery of the Narwhal
Kara Rogers - March 16, 2011
The narwhal is a peculiar member of the whale family. The common name narwhal literally means “corpse whale,” in reference to its pale body color, which shades from a light gray on the lower flanks and underside to a dark and dappled gray on its back. The animal’s most distinguishing characteristic—its 9-foot-long tusk, which is found only in males—is captured in its species name, Monodon monoceros, which means “one-toothed unicorn.” In fact, the narwhal is also known as the “unicorn of the sea,” and its tusk, which is an elongated tooth that projects forward from the mouth and is carved along its length by a left-handed spiraling groove, inspired belief in the mythological one-horned unicorn. Despite years of research, however, the function of the narwhal’s tusk remains unclear. As a result, this whale of the Arctic remains an oddity and its tusk one of the great unsolved mysteries of the marine world. Folklore surrounding the narwhal is rooted in cultural and natural history. For instance, among the Inuit, an indigenous people of the Arctic, narwhals have long been hunted for food and for the ivory of their tusks. But the Inuit also have a legend about how the narwhal and its tusk came to be. According to the story, a cruel woman was persuaded by her son to tie the end of a harpoon rope around her waist.

BBC - Earth - Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns
Meet ten animals that look like real-life unicorns
There's no such thing as a horse with a single horn that has magical powers. But these animals come surprisingly close
 The narwhal's tusk can grow to 2.6m (9ft) long, half as long as its body. It is actually not a horn, but an overgrown canine tooth that spirals counter-clockwise out of the left side of the animal's mouth. No one is sure what it is for. It could be used as an ice pick, helping narwhals travel through the icy Arctic waters, or an acoustic probe or even a lance to battle for mates. Tusks are more common among males, so many think it is a sexual characteristic, with the largest tusk indicating the healthiest male. In 2014, scientists analysed this tooth in detail and discovered it has no enamel. Instead, water flows through the tooth to nerve endings so the narwhal can sense differences in how warm and salty the sea is. View image of A bluespine unicornfish (Naso unicornis) complete with horn (Credit: Jeff Rotman/NPL)
4. Unicornfish ( Naso sp.)

The narwhal's tusk can grow to 2.6m (9ft) long, half as long as its body. It is actually not a horn, but an overgrown canine tooth that spirals counter-clockwise out of the left side of the animal's mouth. No one is sure what it is for. It could be used as an ice pick, helping narwhals travel through the icy Arctic waters, or an acoustic probe or even a lance to battle for mates. Tusks are more common among males, so many think it is a sexual characteristic, with the largest tusk indicating the healthiest male. In 2014, scientists analysed this tooth in detail and discovered it has no enamel. Instead, water flows through the tooth to nerve endings so the narwhal can sense differences in how warm and salty the sea is. View image of A bluespine unicornfish (Naso unicornis) complete with horn (Credit: Jeff Rotman/NPL)
4. Unicornfish ( Naso sp.)

Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals | Live Science Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals
Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals | Live Science
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Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals
Wild narwhals using their tusks to hunt fish, hitting and stunning the prey to make the fish easier to consume. ( Image credit: Linda Bucklin/Shutterstock)
Narwhals are sometimes known as the "unicorns" of the ocean because of the long "tusks" that protrude from the animals' heads, but scientists have long been stumped about the function of this mysterious appendage — until now. Drone footage of wild narwhals has revealed that the whales use their tusks to hunt fish. The tusk is actually a tooth that spirals out of the upper jaw on male narwhals, and can extend to about 10 feet (3 meters) long, according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Canada. While scientists think the tusk's primary function relates to selecting a mate, these new observations show narwhals have another use for the tusks. Researchers from WWF-Canada worked with a team of scientists from multiple organizations to capture this first-of-its kind footage, which was part of a pilot project to use unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) to study narwhal behavior in Tremblay Sound in Nunavut, Canada. [ Whale Album: Giants of the Deep]
The drone-enabled observations provide the first conclusive scientific evidence of the narwhal using its tusk, WWF-Canada officials said in a statement. "This footage, while also stunning to watch, will play a significant role in the future of narwhal conservation," David Miller, president and CEO of WWF-Canada, said in the statement. "

Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals | Live Science

Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals
Narwhals Use Tusks to Stun Prey, Drone Footage Reveals

Are Narwhals Real Animals? - WorldAtlas Are Narwhals Real Animals?
Are Narwhals Real Animals?
Description
Diet
Reproduction
Threats
 The tusk is actually a canine tooth projecting on the left upper jaw and through the lip to form a twirl helix. The tusk grows all through their lifespan up to 10 ft in length and weighs about 22 lbs. About one in 500 males have two tusks where the right canine also protrudes. Approximately, only 15% of the females grow a tusk that is long enough to form the spiral found in their male counterparts. The hollow ivory tusk is an innervated sensory organ possessing up to 10 million nerve endings that connect the brain to seawater stimuli in the external environment. It is believed that the males communicate about the nature of the water by rubbing their tusks together. Some scientists believe that it is also a mating ritual intended to impress the females. Diet
Narwhals have a restrictive specialized diet predominantly comprising of Arctic cod, cuttlefish, shrimp, Greenland halibut, and arm hook squid. To feed, they have to dive 1,640 ft. below sea level and use sound to detect their prey.

Are Narwhals Real Animals? - WorldAtlas

Are Narwhals Real Animals?
Are Narwhals Real Animals?
Description
Diet
Reproduction
Threats

The tusk is actually a canine tooth projecting on the left upper jaw and through the lip to form a twirl helix. The tusk grows all through their lifespan up to 10 ft in length and weighs about 22 lbs. About one in 500 males have two tusks where the right canine also protrudes. Approximately, only 15% of the females grow a tusk that is long enough to form the spiral found in their male counterparts. The hollow ivory tusk is an innervated sensory organ possessing up to 10 million nerve endings that connect the brain to seawater stimuli in the external environment. It is believed that the males communicate about the nature of the water by rubbing their tusks together. Some scientists believe that it is also a mating ritual intended to impress the females. Diet
Narwhals have a restrictive specialized diet predominantly comprising of Arctic cod, cuttlefish, shrimp, Greenland halibut, and arm hook squid. To feed, they have to dive 1,640 ft. below sea level and use sound to detect their prey.

Unicorn Whale - Unicorns Rule! Unicorn Whale (Narwhal)
Unicorn Whale (Narwhal)
Brief Description of the Unicorn Whale or Narwhal
What do Narwahl Eat?
Narwhal Tusks
Where Do Narwhal Live?
Are Narwhals Endangered?
 Narwhals have a fairly restricted and specialized diet. Their prey is mostly composed of Greenland halibut, polar/Arctic cod, cuttlefish, shrimp and armhook squid. However other items found in the stomachs of narwhal have included wolffish, capelin, skate eggs and even rocks. Narwhals are believed to feed by swimming towards prey until it is within close range and then sucking it with considerable force into the mouth. One study published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology tested 73 narwhals of different age and gender to see what they ate. The study conducted in 1978 found that the Arctic cod made up approximately 51% of the diet of the narwhals, with the next most common animal being the Greenland halibut (consisting of 37% of the weight of their diet). Deep-water fish such as halibut, redfish and polar cod have also been found in the diet of the males. This means that the narwhals can dive deeper than 1,600 ft (500 m) below sea level. The study also found that the dietary needs of the narwhal did not change among genders or ages. Narwhal Tusks
The most prominent feature of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is actually a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip and forms a left-handed helix spiral.

Unicorn Whale - Unicorns Rule!

Narwhals have a fairly restricted and specialized diet. Their prey is mostly composed of Greenland halibut, polar/Arctic cod, cuttlefish, shrimp and armhook squid. However other items found in the stomachs of narwhal have included wolffish, capelin, skate eggs and even rocks. Narwhals are believed to feed by swimming towards prey until it is within close range and then sucking it with considerable force into the mouth. One study published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology tested 73 narwhals of different age and gender to see what they ate. The study conducted in 1978 found that the Arctic cod made up approximately 51% of the diet of the narwhals, with the next most common animal being the Greenland halibut (consisting of 37% of the weight of their diet). Deep-water fish such as halibut, redfish and polar cod have also been found in the diet of the males. This means that the narwhals can dive deeper than 1,600 ft (500 m) below sea level. The study also found that the dietary needs of the narwhal did not change among genders or ages. Narwhal Tusks
The most prominent feature of the male narwhal is a single long tusk, which is actually a canine tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw, through the lip and forms a left-handed helix spiral.

Narwhal Facts, Pictures, Information & Video from Active Wild Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Information
The Narwhal’s Name (Warning: It’s A Bit Gruesome!)
The Narwhal’s Tusk
Narwhal Facts & Figures: How Big is a Narwhal?
What Do Narwhals Eat?
Where do Narwhals Live?
Narwhal Families
Threats to Narwhals
Awesome Narwhal Facts
Discover More with Active Wild
 The name narwhal comes from the Norse word ‘nar’, which means ‘corpse’. It refers to the mottled skin of the narwhal, which was thought to resemble the bodies of drowned sailors. The Narwhal’s Tusk
The huge spiral tusk of the Narwhal is in fact an extended tooth which grows from a male narwhal’s upper jaw. The narwhal’s tusk can be as long as 10 feet (3 meters) long! Tusks can be used for fighting and also have a role in sensing the environment, as they containing 10 million nerve endings. ‘Tusking’ is when males rub their tusks together. It is thought that this is done either to establish dominance or for maintenance of the tusk. The narwhal’s tusk is just a long tooth! Narwhal Facts & Figures: How Big is a Narwhal?

Narwhal Facts, Pictures, Information & Video from Active Wild

Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Information
The Narwhal’s Name (Warning: It’s A Bit Gruesome!)
The Narwhal’s Tusk
Narwhal Facts & Figures: How Big is a Narwhal?
What Do Narwhals Eat?
Where do Narwhals Live?
Narwhal Families
Threats to Narwhals
Awesome Narwhal Facts
Discover More with Active Wild

The name narwhal comes from the Norse word ‘nar’, which means ‘corpse’. It refers to the mottled skin of the narwhal, which was thought to resemble the bodies of drowned sailors. The Narwhal’s Tusk
The huge spiral tusk of the Narwhal is in fact an extended tooth which grows from a male narwhal’s upper jaw. The narwhal’s tusk can be as long as 10 feet (3 meters) long! Tusks can be used for fighting and also have a role in sensing the environment, as they containing 10 million nerve endings. ‘Tusking’ is when males rub their tusks together. It is thought that this is done either to establish dominance or for maintenance of the tusk. The narwhal’s tusk is just a long tooth! Narwhal Facts & Figures: How Big is a Narwhal?

Narwhal Tusk Research -- About the Tusk About the Tusk
 Narwhal Tusk Research -- About the Tusk
About the Tusk
The narwhal, Monodon monoceros, has long fascinated sea explorers, scientists and aristocracy. This arctic whale is characterized by a single spiraled tusk extending six to nine feet, emerging from the upper jaw and through the lips of adult males. Males have the characteristic left front tooth extending approximately 8 feet and variable depending on the whale and the age. The right tooth remains embedded in the skull and measures roughly one foot. Some females may exhibit a tusk, and in rare instances a male with two tusks has been observed. Fetal narwhal initially develop six pairs of maxillary or upper teeth and two pairs of mandibular or lower teeth. Only one pair from the maxillary jaw develop and the others are vestigial. Tusk length, girth, morphology, wear and coloration are all quite variable. Male tusks are usually longer and have a wide variation in ridge morphology, often appearing as a gently wavelike form when looking down the horizontal axis. Female tusks are shorter, straighter, have a more regularly defined morphology, and do not collect as much proteinacious or algae on the surface, thus appearing whiter.

Narwhal Tusk Research -- About the Tusk

Narwhal Tusk Research -- About the Tusk
About the Tusk
The narwhal, Monodon monoceros, has long fascinated sea explorers, scientists and aristocracy. This arctic whale is characterized by a single spiraled tusk extending six to nine feet, emerging from the upper jaw and through the lips of adult males. Males have the characteristic left front tooth extending approximately 8 feet and variable depending on the whale and the age. The right tooth remains embedded in the skull and measures roughly one foot. Some females may exhibit a tusk, and in rare instances a male with two tusks has been observed. Fetal narwhal initially develop six pairs of maxillary or upper teeth and two pairs of mandibular or lower teeth. Only one pair from the maxillary jaw develop and the others are vestigial. Tusk length, girth, morphology, wear and coloration are all quite variable. Male tusks are usually longer and have a wide variation in ridge morphology, often appearing as a gently wavelike form when looking down the horizontal axis. Female tusks are shorter, straighter, have a more regularly defined morphology, and do not collect as much proteinacious or algae on the surface, thus appearing whiter.

Interesting facts about narwhals | Just Fun Facts Interesting facts about narwhals
Interesting facts about narwhals In the winter, they move to offshore, deeper waters under thick pack ice, surfacing in narrow fissures in the sea ice, or leads. When in their wintering waters, narwhals make some of the deepest dives recorded for a marine mammal, diving to at least 800 meters (2,600 feet) over 15 times per day, with many dives reaching 1,500 meters (4,900 feet). Dives to these depths last around 25 minutes, including the time spent at the bottom and the transit down and back from the surface. Narwhals feed on Greenland halibut, polar and Arctic cod, cuttlefish, shrimp and squid. Narwhals make a wide range of clicks and whistles underwater. Their sounds seem to vary in summer and winter. They use the clicks, or echolocation, to detect objects in the water (like prey), for navigation and communication. Narwhal tusks are packed with nerves and covered in tiny holes that allow seawater to enter. This gives tusks a sensitivity that could help narwhals detect changes in their environment such as temperature or even the water’s saltiness. Scientists are not certain of the tusk’s purpose, but some believe it is prominent in mating rituals, perhaps used to impress females or to battle rival suitors.

Interesting facts about narwhals | Just Fun Facts

Interesting facts about narwhals
Interesting facts about narwhals

In the winter, they move to offshore, deeper waters under thick pack ice, surfacing in narrow fissures in the sea ice, or leads. When in their wintering waters, narwhals make some of the deepest dives recorded for a marine mammal, diving to at least 800 meters (2,600 feet) over 15 times per day, with many dives reaching 1,500 meters (4,900 feet). Dives to these depths last around 25 minutes, including the time spent at the bottom and the transit down and back from the surface. Narwhals feed on Greenland halibut, polar and Arctic cod, cuttlefish, shrimp and squid. Narwhals make a wide range of clicks and whistles underwater. Their sounds seem to vary in summer and winter. They use the clicks, or echolocation, to detect objects in the water (like prey), for navigation and communication. Narwhal tusks are packed with nerves and covered in tiny holes that allow seawater to enter. This gives tusks a sensitivity that could help narwhals detect changes in their environment such as temperature or even the water’s saltiness. Scientists are not certain of the tusk’s purpose, but some believe it is prominent in mating rituals, perhaps used to impress females or to battle rival suitors.

Narwhal Facts - Earth's Endangered Creatures Narwhal
Narwhal
Endangered Species of Our Planet
 It is possibly also related to the Irrawaddy dolphin. Description
The most conspicuous characteristic of male narwhal is their single extraordinarily long tusk, an incisor that projects from the left side of the upper jaw and forms a left-handed helix. The tusk can be up to 3 metres (nearly 10 ft) long (compared with a body length of 7–8 m [23–26 ft]) and weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 lbs). About one in 500 males has two tusks, which occurs when the right tooth, normally small, also grows out. Although rare, a female narwhal may also produce a tusk. There is a single recorded case of a female with two tusks. The purpose of the tusk has been the subject of much debate. Early scientific theories suggested that the tusk was used to pierce the ice covering the narwhal's Arctic Sea habitat. Others suggested the tusk was used in echolocation. More recently, scientists believed the tusk is primarily used for showmanship and for dominance:

Narwhal Facts - Earth's Endangered Creatures

Narwhal
Narwhal
Endangered Species of Our Planet

It is possibly also related to the Irrawaddy dolphin. Description
The most conspicuous characteristic of male narwhal is their single extraordinarily long tusk, an incisor that projects from the left side of the upper jaw and forms a left-handed helix. The tusk can be up to 3 metres (nearly 10 ft) long (compared with a body length of 7–8 m [23–26 ft]) and weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 lbs). About one in 500 males has two tusks, which occurs when the right tooth, normally small, also grows out. Although rare, a female narwhal may also produce a tusk. There is a single recorded case of a female with two tusks. The purpose of the tusk has been the subject of much debate. Early scientific theories suggested that the tusk was used to pierce the ice covering the narwhal's Arctic Sea habitat. Others suggested the tusk was used in echolocation. More recently, scientists believed the tusk is primarily used for showmanship and for dominance:

Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts | Stories | WWF Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts
Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts
Often dubbed the unicorns of the sea, narwhals are strange and beautiful creatures with long tusks protruding from their heads. Members of the population of more than 80,000 can weigh up to 4,200 pounds and grow as long as 17 feet in length. Read on to learn more about these fascinating animals.
1. What is a narwhal tusk?
2. Where do narwhals live?
3. What threats do narwhals face?
4. What do narwhals eat?
5. How deep do narwhals dive?
6. What color are narwhals?
7. How do we learn more about narwhals?
Learn more about narwhals.
Will You Join Us?
Adopt a Narwhal
 Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts | Stories | WWF
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Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts
© Paul Nicklen / National Geographic Creative / WWF-Canada
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Often dubbed the unicorns of the sea, narwhals are strange and beautiful creatures with long tusks protruding from their heads. Members of the population of more than 80,000 can weigh up to 4,200 pounds and grow as long as 17 feet in length. Read on to learn more about these fascinating animals. 1. What is a narwhal tusk? The narwhal tusk—most commonly found on males—is actually an enlarged tooth with sensory capability and up to 10 million nerve endings inside. Some narwhals have up to two tusks, while others have none. The spiraled tusk juts from the head and can grow as long at 10 feet.

Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts | Stories | WWF

Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts
Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts
Often dubbed the unicorns of the sea, narwhals are strange and beautiful creatures with long tusks protruding from their heads. Members of the population of more than 80,000 can weigh up to 4,200 pounds and grow as long as 17 feet in length. Read on to learn more about these fascinating animals.
1. What is a narwhal tusk?
2. Where do narwhals live?
3. What threats do narwhals face?
4. What do narwhals eat?
5. How deep do narwhals dive?
6. What color are narwhals?
7. How do we learn more about narwhals?
Learn more about narwhals.
Will You Join Us?
Adopt a Narwhal

Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts | Stories | WWF
Stories
Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhal Facts
© Paul Nicklen / National Geographic Creative / WWF-Canada
Tweet
Tell a Friend
Often dubbed the unicorns of the sea, narwhals are strange and beautiful creatures with long tusks protruding from their heads. Members of the population of more than 80,000 can weigh up to 4,200 pounds and grow as long as 17 feet in length. Read on to learn more about these fascinating animals. 1. What is a narwhal tusk? The narwhal tusk—most commonly found on males—is actually an enlarged tooth with sensory capability and up to 10 million nerve endings inside. Some narwhals have up to two tusks, while others have none. The spiraled tusk juts from the head and can grow as long at 10 feet.

For a dentist, the narwhal's smile is a mystery of evolution | Smithsonian Insider For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution They eat large fish, yet swallow them whole. If you look in its mouth there’s nothing. There are absolutely no teeth.” Incredibly, the narwhal’s only visible tooth is outside of its mouth. Its tusk, in fact, is a giant canine tooth—that can grow as long as 9 feet—with a distinct left-hand spiral, covered in a tissue called cementum, normally only found around the base of a tooth lodged in bone. Nweeia and a team of dentists and zoologists from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Harvard and other research organizations recently took a very close look at the dentition of the narwhal’s mouth. They studied more than 130 skulls in museum collections and 21 skulls of narwhals killed by native hunters in Canada. In a new paper published in The Anatomical Record, the team determined: The long spiral tusk of the male narwhal is one of a pair of canine teeth positioned horizontally in the animal’s skull. They determined it was a canine and not an incisor because the tusk originates in the narwhal’s maxillary bone, where canine teeth in mammals originate.

For a dentist, the narwhal's smile is a mystery of evolution | Smithsonian Insider

For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution

They eat large fish, yet swallow them whole. If you look in its mouth there’s nothing. There are absolutely no teeth.” Incredibly, the narwhal’s only visible tooth is outside of its mouth. Its tusk, in fact, is a giant canine tooth—that can grow as long as 9 feet—with a distinct left-hand spiral, covered in a tissue called cementum, normally only found around the base of a tooth lodged in bone. Nweeia and a team of dentists and zoologists from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Harvard and other research organizations recently took a very close look at the dentition of the narwhal’s mouth. They studied more than 130 skulls in museum collections and 21 skulls of narwhals killed by native hunters in Canada. In a new paper published in The Anatomical Record, the team determined: The long spiral tusk of the male narwhal is one of a pair of canine teeth positioned horizontally in the animal’s skull. They determined it was a canine and not an incisor because the tusk originates in the narwhal’s maxillary bone, where canine teeth in mammals originate.

 What Is a Narwhal?
Wonder of the Day #489
What Is a Narwhal?
Have You Ever Wondered...
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 Sometimes called “the Arctic unicorn," narwhals are small whales (about 15-16 feet long) that live in the icy waters of the Atlantic and Russian areas of the Arctic Ocean, near Canada and Greenland. Narwhals are most closely related to the beluga whale. Male narwhals feature a unique, defining physical characteristic: a long protrusion from the upper left jaw that looks like a tusk or a horn. In medieval times, people believed that narwhal tusks were the horns of the legendary unicorn. In reality, though, a narwhal tusk is not a unicorn horn. In fact, it's not a horn at all. Would you believe it's a tooth? It's true! Male narwhals have a left incisor tooth that grows outward straight through the left side of the upper jaw.

What Is a Narwhal?
Wonder of the Day #489
What Is a Narwhal?
Have You Ever Wondered...
Tags:

Sometimes called “the Arctic unicorn," narwhals are small whales (about 15-16 feet long) that live in the icy waters of the Atlantic and Russian areas of the Arctic Ocean, near Canada and Greenland. Narwhals are most closely related to the beluga whale. Male narwhals feature a unique, defining physical characteristic: a long protrusion from the upper left jaw that looks like a tusk or a horn. In medieval times, people believed that narwhal tusks were the horns of the legendary unicorn. In reality, though, a narwhal tusk is not a unicorn horn. In fact, it's not a horn at all. Would you believe it's a tooth? It's true! Male narwhals have a left incisor tooth that grows outward straight through the left side of the upper jaw.

7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals | Mental Floss 7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
2. The tusk can grow to be 10 feet long
3. It can bend about a foot before breaking
4. We’re not entirely sure what it’s for
5. Not all narwhals have tusks
6. Their skin is rich in vitamin C
7. There are none in captivity
 7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals | Mental Floss
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7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
BY Jessica Hullinger
April 3, 2014
Wikimedia Commons
There are few creatures I find so fascinating as the narwhal. Like many tusked animals, this arctic whale has a majestic quality to it. In medieval times, its long, straight tusk was often given to royalty, passed off as a “unicorn horn.” In the 16th century, a narwhal tusk worth £10,000 was given to Queen Elizabeth. Today, the narwhal still holds our interest, and its tusk remains one of the most mysterious things about these creatures. Here’s what we know about them. 1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
While it might appear to be situated in the center of its head, the narwhal’s tusk is actually an exaggerated front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. Stranger still, while most teeth (including human teeth) have a hard exterior and a soft, sensitive interior, narwhal teeth are the opposite. “

7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals | Mental Floss

7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
2. The tusk can grow to be 10 feet long
3. It can bend about a foot before breaking
4. We’re not entirely sure what it’s for
5. Not all narwhals have tusks
6. Their skin is rich in vitamin C
7. There are none in captivity

7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals | Mental Floss
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Lists
7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
BY Jessica Hullinger
April 3, 2014
Wikimedia Commons
There are few creatures I find so fascinating as the narwhal. Like many tusked animals, this arctic whale has a majestic quality to it. In medieval times, its long, straight tusk was often given to royalty, passed off as a “unicorn horn.” In the 16th century, a narwhal tusk worth £10,000 was given to Queen Elizabeth. Today, the narwhal still holds our interest, and its tusk remains one of the most mysterious things about these creatures. Here’s what we know about them. 1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
While it might appear to be situated in the center of its head, the narwhal’s tusk is actually an exaggerated front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. Stranger still, while most teeth (including human teeth) have a hard exterior and a soft, sensitive interior, narwhal teeth are the opposite. “

Narwhal | Facts, pictures & more about Narwhal Narwhal
Narwhal
How do Narwhals feed?
Are Narwhals social?
How fast do Narwhals swim?
What are Narwhal birthing rituals like?
How long do Narwhals live?
How many Narwhals are there today?
Do Narwhals have any natural predators?
7 Wonderful Narwhal Facts
 Narwhals are also susceptible to getting trapped under the ice, especially if they wait too long to migrate before the Arctic winter closes off large stretches of water. 7 Wonderful Narwhal Facts
The Narwhal’s closest relative is the Beluga Whale, both belonging to the Monodontidae family. The Narwhal’s famous unicorn-like horn or tusk is in fact a canine tooth. Unlike most other whales and dolphins the Narwhal’s neck is jointed, not rigid or fused, meaning it can move its head around separately from its body. The name “Narwhal” comes from the Old Norse word nár which means “corpse”, referring to the mottled grey appearance of the whale which resembles that of drowned sailors. The scientific name Monodon Monoceros comes from Greek words meaning “one-tooth one-horn”. There is some possible evidence that Narwhals and Belugas occasionally mate. The horn or tusk is a sensory organ. Seawater enters a number of minute channels in the horn and then is channeled to a “taste” centre towards the base of the tusk. From there nerve endings send signals to the Narwhal’s brain, giving it chemical information about the waters surrounding it.

Narwhal | Facts, pictures & more about Narwhal

Narwhal
Narwhal
How do Narwhals feed?
Are Narwhals social?
How fast do Narwhals swim?
What are Narwhal birthing rituals like?
How long do Narwhals live?
How many Narwhals are there today?
Do Narwhals have any natural predators?
7 Wonderful Narwhal Facts

Narwhals are also susceptible to getting trapped under the ice, especially if they wait too long to migrate before the Arctic winter closes off large stretches of water. 7 Wonderful Narwhal Facts
The Narwhal’s closest relative is the Beluga Whale, both belonging to the Monodontidae family. The Narwhal’s famous unicorn-like horn or tusk is in fact a canine tooth. Unlike most other whales and dolphins the Narwhal’s neck is jointed, not rigid or fused, meaning it can move its head around separately from its body. The name “Narwhal” comes from the Old Norse word nár which means “corpse”, referring to the mottled grey appearance of the whale which resembles that of drowned sailors. The scientific name Monodon Monoceros comes from Greek words meaning “one-tooth one-horn”. There is some possible evidence that Narwhals and Belugas occasionally mate. The horn or tusk is a sensory organ. Seawater enters a number of minute channels in the horn and then is channeled to a “taste” centre towards the base of the tusk. From there nerve endings send signals to the Narwhal’s brain, giving it chemical information about the waters surrounding it.

BBC - Earth - The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out BBC - Earth - The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
There's a popular idea that narwhals use their long tusks to spear food, like a nautical kebab. The reality is even stranger
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By Lesley Evans Ogden
26 October 2015
Reputation: Narwhals are mythical creatures – unicorns of the sea. They are "toothed whales" so obviously have teeth in their mouths. They spear their food, and are as aggressive and dangerous as they look. Reality: Narwhals are not mythical. They do not have teeth in their mouths, but their characteristic tusk is actually an overgrown tooth. They do not catch food by spearing it. They are shy and skittish.

The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out

BBC - Earth - The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
The tusks of narwhals are actually teeth that are inside-out
There's a popular idea that narwhals use their long tusks to spear food, like a nautical kebab. The reality is even stranger
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By Lesley Evans Ogden
26 October 2015
Reputation: Narwhals are mythical creatures – unicorns of the sea. They are "toothed whales" so obviously have teeth in their mouths. They spear their food, and are as aggressive and dangerous as they look. Reality: Narwhals are not mythical. They do not have teeth in their mouths, but their characteristic tusk is actually an overgrown tooth. They do not catch food by spearing it. They are shy and skittish.

Narwhal Facts, Pictures, Information & Video from Active Wild Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Information
The Narwhal’s Name (Warning: It’s A Bit Gruesome!)
The Narwhal’s Tusk
Narwhal Facts & Figures: How Big is a Narwhal?
What Do Narwhals Eat?
Where do Narwhals Live?
Narwhal Families
Threats to Narwhals
Awesome Narwhal Facts
Discover More with Active Wild
 The only other species in the Monodontidae family is the closely related Beluga Whale. You can find out more about Beluga Whales here: Beluga Whale Facts. The Narwhal’s Name (Warning: It’s A Bit Gruesome!) The name narwhal comes from the Norse word ‘nar’, which means ‘corpse’. It refers to the mottled skin of the narwhal, which was thought to resemble the bodies of drowned sailors. The Narwhal’s Tusk
The huge spiral tusk of the Narwhal is in fact an extended tooth which grows from a male narwhal’s upper jaw. The narwhal’s tusk can be as long as 10 feet (3 meters) long! Tusks can be used for fighting and also have a role in sensing the environment, as they containing 10 million nerve endings.

The only other species in the Monodontidae family is the closely related Beluga Whale. You can find out more about Beluga Whales here: Beluga Whale Facts. The Narwhal’s Name (Warning: It’s A Bit Gruesome!) The name narwhal comes from the Norse word ‘nar’, which means ‘corpse’. It refers to the mottled skin of the narwhal, which was thought to resemble the bodies of drowned sailors. The Narwhal’s Tusk
The huge spiral tusk of the Narwhal is in fact an extended tooth which grows from a male narwhal’s upper jaw. The narwhal’s tusk can be as long as 10 feet (3 meters) long! Tusks can be used for fighting and also have a role in sensing the environment, as they containing 10 million nerve endings.

Are Narwhals Real Animals? - WorldAtlas Are Narwhals Real Animals?
Are Narwhals Real Animals?
Description
Diet
Reproduction
Threats
 There are about 170,000 narwhals in the world, which are classified as near threatened mostly thanks to human activities and global warming. If conservation efforts are not executed on a global level, the species face extinction. Description
Narwhals, together with the dorsal fin lacking pure white beluga whale, are the only two living species of the Monodontidae family. The legendary "unicorn of the sea" is medium sized with an adult male weighing up to 3,530 lbs and females 1,750 lbs. Narwhals are identified by a distinctively long tusk mainly found in males. The tusk is actually a canine tooth projecting on the left upper jaw and through the lip to form a twirl helix. The tusk grows all through their lifespan up to 10 ft in length and weighs about 22 lbs. About one in 500 males have two tusks where the right canine also protrudes. Approximately, only 15% of the females grow a tusk that is long enough to form the spiral found in their male counterparts. The hollow ivory tusk is an innervated sensory organ possessing up to 10 million nerve endings that connect the brain to seawater stimuli in the external environment.

Are Narwhals Real Animals? - WorldAtlas

There are about 170,000 narwhals in the world, which are classified as near threatened mostly thanks to human activities and global warming. If conservation efforts are not executed on a global level, the species face extinction. Description
Narwhals, together with the dorsal fin lacking pure white beluga whale, are the only two living species of the Monodontidae family. The legendary "unicorn of the sea" is medium sized with an adult male weighing up to 3,530 lbs and females 1,750 lbs. Narwhals are identified by a distinctively long tusk mainly found in males. The tusk is actually a canine tooth projecting on the left upper jaw and through the lip to form a twirl helix. The tusk grows all through their lifespan up to 10 ft in length and weighs about 22 lbs. About one in 500 males have two tusks where the right canine also protrudes. Approximately, only 15% of the females grow a tusk that is long enough to form the spiral found in their male counterparts. The hollow ivory tusk is an innervated sensory organ possessing up to 10 million nerve endings that connect the brain to seawater stimuli in the external environment.

 What Is a Narwhal?
Wonder of the Day #489
What Is a Narwhal?
Have You Ever Wondered...
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 In reality, though, a narwhal tusk is not a unicorn horn. In fact, it's not a horn at all. Would you believe it's a tooth? It's true! Male narwhals have a left incisor tooth that grows outward straight through the left side of the upper jaw. It can grow up to almost 10 feet in length with a distinctive spiral shape. Female narwhals also have a similar tusk that's much shorter and straighter. A narwhal's right incisor is normally small, but occasionally it also grows out. These “two-horned" narwhals are very rare. Scientists aren't completely sure what purpose narwhal tusks serve.

In reality, though, a narwhal tusk is not a unicorn horn. In fact, it's not a horn at all. Would you believe it's a tooth? It's true! Male narwhals have a left incisor tooth that grows outward straight through the left side of the upper jaw. It can grow up to almost 10 feet in length with a distinctive spiral shape. Female narwhals also have a similar tusk that's much shorter and straighter. A narwhal's right incisor is normally small, but occasionally it also grows out. These “two-horned" narwhals are very rare. Scientists aren't completely sure what purpose narwhal tusks serve.

8 Fun Facts about Narwhals | Sport Diver 8 Fun Facts about Narwhals
8 Fun Facts about Narwhals Its closest living relative is the beluga, but unlike belugas, narwhals (or narwhales) possess a tusk that is actually a tooth. It is a front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. 2. The tusk, which grows throughout the narwhal’s life, can reach 10 feet long (regulation basketball hoops are 10 feet tall). As it grows, it spirals to the left. 3. The tusk can bend about 12 inches before breaking. Its structure is opposite of a human tooth — it has a tough core and soft outer layer. 4.

Its closest living relative is the beluga, but unlike belugas, narwhals (or narwhales) possess a tusk that is actually a tooth. It is a front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. 2. The tusk, which grows throughout the narwhal’s life, can reach 10 feet long (regulation basketball hoops are 10 feet tall). As it grows, it spirals to the left. 3. The tusk can bend about 12 inches before breaking. Its structure is opposite of a human tooth — it has a tough core and soft outer layer. 4.

How to Tell the Gender of Sharks | Pets on Mom.com How to Tell the Gender of Sharks
How to Tell the Gender of Sharks
Females Are Bigger
No Claspers on the Girls
Only Cloacas on the Females
Reproductive Behaviors and Scars
Are Narwhals Dolphins or Whales?
Meet the Narwhal
Whales, Dolphins & Porpoises
Teeth, Tusks & Feeding
Finer Tusk Points
 This toothy detail is why it's easy to confuse narwhals for dolphins. Technically speaking, narwhals are odontocetes (i.e., toothed cetaceans), although they don't have any teeth in their mouths. Instead, narwhals have a horn that's really a tusk -- a specialized canine tooth -- that grows roughly eight feet from their upper-left jaws. This growth is unique among cetaceans. Most females don't have tusks, which is why their function probably isn't related to feeding and other non-sexed behaviors. Narwhals are among the most adept divers of the whale world, and subsist on a specialized, seasonal diet of deep-sea fish. Finer Tusk Points
All narwhal's tusks grow in counter-clockwise spirals. Male narwhals probably use them to determine social rank, although they've never been observed using them for fighting or other aggressive behaviors. Most male narwhals have one tusk, although a small percentage have two. Size and morphology can vary greatly, although all tusks grow in counter-clockwise spirals.

How to Tell the Gender of Sharks | Pets on Mom.com

How to Tell the Gender of Sharks
How to Tell the Gender of Sharks
Females Are Bigger
No Claspers on the Girls
Only Cloacas on the Females
Reproductive Behaviors and Scars
Are Narwhals Dolphins or Whales?
Meet the Narwhal
Whales, Dolphins & Porpoises
Teeth, Tusks & Feeding
Finer Tusk Points

This toothy detail is why it's easy to confuse narwhals for dolphins. Technically speaking, narwhals are odontocetes (i.e., toothed cetaceans), although they don't have any teeth in their mouths. Instead, narwhals have a horn that's really a tusk -- a specialized canine tooth -- that grows roughly eight feet from their upper-left jaws. This growth is unique among cetaceans. Most females don't have tusks, which is why their function probably isn't related to feeding and other non-sexed behaviors. Narwhals are among the most adept divers of the whale world, and subsist on a specialized, seasonal diet of deep-sea fish. Finer Tusk Points
All narwhal's tusks grow in counter-clockwise spirals. Male narwhals probably use them to determine social rank, although they've never been observed using them for fighting or other aggressive behaviors. Most male narwhals have one tusk, although a small percentage have two. Size and morphology can vary greatly, although all tusks grow in counter-clockwise spirals.

7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals | Mental Floss 7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
7 Fascinating Facts About Narwhals
1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
2. The tusk can grow to be 10 feet long
3. It can bend about a foot before breaking
4. We’re not entirely sure what it’s for
5. Not all narwhals have tusks
6. Their skin is rich in vitamin C
7. There are none in captivity
 Here’s what we know about them. 1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
While it might appear to be situated in the center of its head, the narwhal’s tusk is actually an exaggerated front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. Stranger still, while most teeth (including human teeth) have a hard exterior and a soft, sensitive interior, narwhal teeth are the opposite. “ No big surprise. It's been opposite in every other way,” Martin Nweeia, a clinical instructor at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, told NPR after making this discovery. “ But to find a tooth that is soft on the outside and has its most dense part around the pulp was completely odd.” 2. The tusk can grow to be 10 feet long
Wikimedia Commons
Narwhal tusks grow throughout the animals’ entire lives and can reach incredible lengths.

Here’s what we know about them. 1. Its tusk is actually a tooth
While it might appear to be situated in the center of its head, the narwhal’s tusk is actually an exaggerated front left tooth that protrudes from the upper lip. The right front tooth is small, and usually remains in the mouth. Stranger still, while most teeth (including human teeth) have a hard exterior and a soft, sensitive interior, narwhal teeth are the opposite. “ No big surprise. It's been opposite in every other way,” Martin Nweeia, a clinical instructor at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, told NPR after making this discovery. “ But to find a tooth that is soft on the outside and has its most dense part around the pulp was completely odd.” 2. The tusk can grow to be 10 feet long
Wikimedia Commons
Narwhal tusks grow throughout the animals’ entire lives and can reach incredible lengths.

Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic
Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic
The meaning of the narwhal name
The biology of narwhals
All about the narwhal tusk
Understanding the tusk’s purpose
The narwhal’s sonar
At home in the pack ice
Narwhal diving depths
The northward narwhals
Adapting to life in the deep waters
 All about the narwhal tusk
The narwhal is famous among Greenland travellers as well as passengers on Svalbard voyages due to its long ivory tusk that spirals out counter clockwise. However, it is not a tusk like an elephant’s, but an upper-left canine tooth. Some male narwhal’s even have two of them, while only 15 percent of females have the tusk at all. Understanding the tusk’s purpose
To understand more about the narwhal tusk, scientists have partnered with various Arctic communities. By combining scientific research with Inuit knowledge, researchers aim to understand more about why the species have tusks and how they use them day-to-day. With more than 60 scientists integrating their research with Inuit knowledge, researchers have undertaken laboratory and field studies to investigate the physical and dental properties of the tusks. As the studies have an interdisciplinary nature, scientists have also conducted field expeditions and collected over 50 interviews with Inuit community members. One mystery scientists seek to uncover is why narwhal tusks break. Some of the knowledge collected regarding tusks breaking include descriptions of threatened narwhals immediately diving in shallow waters, hitting the sea floor, and breaking their tusks. The narwhal’s sonar
Recently scientists discovered that the tusk of the narwhal enables them to “see” like no other animal on Earth.

Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic

Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic
Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic
The meaning of the narwhal name
The biology of narwhals
All about the narwhal tusk
Understanding the tusk’s purpose
The narwhal’s sonar
At home in the pack ice
Narwhal diving depths
The northward narwhals
Adapting to life in the deep waters

Narwhal FAQ – Kristin Laidre Narwhal FAQ
Narwhal FAQ
What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for?
What do narwhals look like?
Where does the word ‘narwhal’ come from?
What are the reproductive patterns of narwhals?
How long do narwhals live?
How many narwhals are there in the world? Is it all one population?
Do narwhals travel in pods and how big are pods?
How do you figure out where narwhals go and what they do underwater?
Do narwhals migrate and what is their seasonal cycle?
How deep do narwhals dive?
How do narwhals make such deep dives?
Why do they make deep dives?
How do you know what narwhals eat if you can’t see them underwater?
Do narwhals like sea ice?
What is an ice entrapment?
Do narwhals make noises?
Do research collaborations involve native communities?
Why is the narwhal important to native communities?
Why is it important to study narwhals?
What threats are currently facing narwhals?
Can narwhals survive climate change?
Where can I find references for all of the above?
Other useful links to narwhal information
 What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for? The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but unlike all other toothed whales it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead, the male develops a long straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes 2-3 m out of the upper left jaw. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. The tusk is unique to male narwhals. Very rarely, a female will grow a tusk, or a narwhal will grow two tusks. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages and became the source of the unicorn myth. The tusks were sold without a good description of the animal from which they came and inspired a great deal of fantasy. To some extent, the tusks still inspire fantasies, as many explanations have been proposed for the purpose of the tusk, including: breaking ice, swordfighting, spearing fish for food, or for digging in the bottom the sea.

Narwhal FAQ – Kristin Laidre

Narwhal FAQ
Narwhal FAQ
What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for?
What do narwhals look like?
Where does the word ‘narwhal’ come from?
What are the reproductive patterns of narwhals?
How long do narwhals live?
How many narwhals are there in the world? Is it all one population?
Do narwhals travel in pods and how big are pods?
How do you figure out where narwhals go and what they do underwater?
Do narwhals migrate and what is their seasonal cycle?
How deep do narwhals dive?
How do narwhals make such deep dives?
Why do they make deep dives?
How do you know what narwhals eat if you can’t see them underwater?
Do narwhals like sea ice?
What is an ice entrapment?
Do narwhals make noises?
Do research collaborations involve native communities?
Why is the narwhal important to native communities?
Why is it important to study narwhals?
What threats are currently facing narwhals?
Can narwhals survive climate change?
Where can I find references for all of the above?
Other useful links to narwhal information

What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for? The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but unlike all other toothed whales it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead, the male develops a long straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes 2-3 m out of the upper left jaw. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. The tusk is unique to male narwhals. Very rarely, a female will grow a tusk, or a narwhal will grow two tusks. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages and became the source of the unicorn myth. The tusks were sold without a good description of the animal from which they came and inspired a great deal of fantasy. To some extent, the tusks still inspire fantasies, as many explanations have been proposed for the purpose of the tusk, including: breaking ice, swordfighting, spearing fish for food, or for digging in the bottom the sea.

A Beautiful World™: Keep Narwhals Real | Minnesota Public Radio Keep Narwhals Real!
Keep Narwhals Real!
Narwhals Are Real
The King of Teeth
An Extraordinary World of Sound
A Loud Threat
Seismic Mapping
Crowdsourcing scientific studies?
Blasting Begins in June 2016
Biographies
 They have the king of teeth" he says. " The most amazing tooth in the animal kingdom, by far." The King of Teeth
For years, the narwhal tusk was thought to be an insensate horn, used for hunting or mating displays but nobody knew for sure, until Dr. Martin Nweeia figured it out. By gathering ancient Inuit knowledge and combining it with cutting-edge research, he discovered a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth. Specifically, the left tooth on an adult male, which grows up to nine feet long, over half the narwhal's body. The tooth is perfectly straight at its axis, but spirals left on the surface. It's also weirdly soft and flexible, which Narweeia says the Inuit had told him narwhal tusks could bend, but he didn't believe it until years later, after it was painstakingly proven in a lab. " Everything they tell me turns out to be true," he says. " It takes us years to find out what they already know." "The most stunning discovery about narwhal tusks explained why they were packed tight with complex nerve bundles that connected directly to their brains and auditory systems.

A Beautiful World™: Keep Narwhals Real | Minnesota Public Radio

Keep Narwhals Real!
Keep Narwhals Real!
Narwhals Are Real
The King of Teeth
An Extraordinary World of Sound
A Loud Threat
Seismic Mapping
Crowdsourcing scientific studies?
Blasting Begins in June 2016
Biographies

They have the king of teeth" he says. " The most amazing tooth in the animal kingdom, by far." The King of Teeth
For years, the narwhal tusk was thought to be an insensate horn, used for hunting or mating displays but nobody knew for sure, until Dr. Martin Nweeia figured it out. By gathering ancient Inuit knowledge and combining it with cutting-edge research, he discovered a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth. Specifically, the left tooth on an adult male, which grows up to nine feet long, over half the narwhal's body. The tooth is perfectly straight at its axis, but spirals left on the surface. It's also weirdly soft and flexible, which Narweeia says the Inuit had told him narwhal tusks could bend, but he didn't believe it until years later, after it was painstakingly proven in a lab. " Everything they tell me turns out to be true," he says. " It takes us years to find out what they already know." "The most stunning discovery about narwhal tusks explained why they were packed tight with complex nerve bundles that connected directly to their brains and auditory systems.

27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals - FactsKing.com 27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
Physical and Scientific Characteristics of Narwhal
Narwhal Distribution
Narwhal Behaviour and Diet
Interesting Facts about Narwhals
 Physical and Scientific Characteristics of Narwhal
The scientific name of the narwhal is Monodon monoceros which translates from Latin to ‘One tooth One horn’. The closest living relative of the narwhal is the beluga whale and are part of the Monodontidae family. These members are almost always medium sized, having short snouts and lack the dorsal fin that is present in other whale species. Unlike whales, they also have joined neck vertebrae. The narwhal is distinguished by the protruding tusk which is actually an extension of the canine tooth! This is the front tooth that protrudes beyond the upper lip. It grows throughout the narwhal’s life and can be as long as 10 feet. After maturing, it grows and spirals towards the left. Unlike most mammalian teeth, they have a soft outer layer and a tough inner core. Some species can have a rare second tusk (usually one in 500 males).

27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
27 Interesting Facts about Narwhals.
Physical and Scientific Characteristics of Narwhal
Narwhal Distribution
Narwhal Behaviour and Diet
Interesting Facts about Narwhals

Physical and Scientific Characteristics of Narwhal
The scientific name of the narwhal is Monodon monoceros which translates from Latin to ‘One tooth One horn’. The closest living relative of the narwhal is the beluga whale and are part of the Monodontidae family. These members are almost always medium sized, having short snouts and lack the dorsal fin that is present in other whale species. Unlike whales, they also have joined neck vertebrae. The narwhal is distinguished by the protruding tusk which is actually an extension of the canine tooth! This is the front tooth that protrudes beyond the upper lip. It grows throughout the narwhal’s life and can be as long as 10 feet. After maturing, it grows and spirals towards the left. Unlike most mammalian teeth, they have a soft outer layer and a tough inner core. Some species can have a rare second tusk (usually one in 500 males).

narwhal | Habitat, Tusk, & Facts | Britannica Narwhal
Narwhal
mammal
Learn More in these related Britannica articles:
 Their mottled gray bodies are darker above than below, and they usually attain a length of 3.5 to 5 metres (11.5 to 16.4 feet), with males being larger than females. Adult males weigh about 1,600 kg (3,500 pounds); females weigh about 1,000 kg (about 2,200 pounds). The narwhal has two teeth, both at the tip of the upper jaw, but usually only the left tooth develops. The resulting tusk grows to more than 3 metres (9.8 feet) and is grooved on the surface in a left-handed spiral. The undeveloped right tooth in males and usually both teeth in females remain vestigial. However, on rare occasions two tusks may develop in females as well as males. Although a variety of theories have been proposed for the specific function of the narwhal’s tusk, recent observations suggest that the males use their tusks to hunt fish and to detect the level of salt in the waters through which they swim. Previously authorities, including English naturalist Charles Darwin, believed that males use their tusks in aggression against one another in their competition for mates. The tusk was prized in medieval times as the horn of the fabled unicorn.

narwhal | Habitat, Tusk, & Facts | Britannica

Narwhal
Narwhal
mammal
Learn More in these related Britannica articles:

Their mottled gray bodies are darker above than below, and they usually attain a length of 3.5 to 5 metres (11.5 to 16.4 feet), with males being larger than females. Adult males weigh about 1,600 kg (3,500 pounds); females weigh about 1,000 kg (about 2,200 pounds). The narwhal has two teeth, both at the tip of the upper jaw, but usually only the left tooth develops. The resulting tusk grows to more than 3 metres (9.8 feet) and is grooved on the surface in a left-handed spiral. The undeveloped right tooth in males and usually both teeth in females remain vestigial. However, on rare occasions two tusks may develop in females as well as males. Although a variety of theories have been proposed for the specific function of the narwhal’s tusk, recent observations suggest that the males use their tusks to hunt fish and to detect the level of salt in the waters through which they swim. Previously authorities, including English naturalist Charles Darwin, believed that males use their tusks in aggression against one another in their competition for mates. The tusk was prized in medieval times as the horn of the fabled unicorn.

Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic
Narwhals: the Aquatic Unicorns of the Arctic
The meaning of the narwhal name
The biology of narwhals
All about the narwhal tusk
Understanding the tusk’s purpose
The narwhal’s sonar
At home in the pack ice
Narwhal diving depths
The northward narwhals
Adapting to life in the deep waters
 Newborn narwhals are a blotchy, slate colour or blue-grey. Juveniles become blue-black, adults become a mottled grey colour, and old narwhals are nearly all white. They can live between 30 – 40 years and have only one real predator that journeys up to the Arctic regions: the orca, or killer whale. When feeding, narwhals create a vacuum that sucks up their food, which includes Greenland halibut, shrimp, Arctic cod, rockfish, flounder, and crab. All about the narwhal tusk
The narwhal is famous among Greenland travellers as well as passengers on Svalbard voyages due to its long ivory tusk that spirals out counter clockwise. However, it is not a tusk like an elephant’s, but an upper-left canine tooth. Some male narwhal’s even have two of them, while only 15 percent of females have the tusk at all. Understanding the tusk’s purpose
To understand more about the narwhal tusk, scientists have partnered with various Arctic communities. By combining scientific research with Inuit knowledge, researchers aim to understand more about why the species have tusks and how they use them day-to-day.

Newborn narwhals are a blotchy, slate colour or blue-grey. Juveniles become blue-black, adults become a mottled grey colour, and old narwhals are nearly all white. They can live between 30 – 40 years and have only one real predator that journeys up to the Arctic regions: the orca, or killer whale. When feeding, narwhals create a vacuum that sucks up their food, which includes Greenland halibut, shrimp, Arctic cod, rockfish, flounder, and crab. All about the narwhal tusk
The narwhal is famous among Greenland travellers as well as passengers on Svalbard voyages due to its long ivory tusk that spirals out counter clockwise. However, it is not a tusk like an elephant’s, but an upper-left canine tooth. Some male narwhal’s even have two of them, while only 15 percent of females have the tusk at all. Understanding the tusk’s purpose
To understand more about the narwhal tusk, scientists have partnered with various Arctic communities. By combining scientific research with Inuit knowledge, researchers aim to understand more about why the species have tusks and how they use them day-to-day.

Narwhal - Wikipedia Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 The rubbing of tusks together by male narwhals is thought to be a method of communicating information about characteristics of the water each has traveled through, rather than the previously assumed posturing display of aggressive male-to-male rivalry. In August 2016, drone videos of narwhals surface-feeding in Tremblay Sound, Nunavut showed that the tusk was used to tap and stun small Arctic cod, making them easier to catch for feeding. The tusk cannot serve a critical function for the animal's survival, as females — which generally do not have tusks — typically live longer than males. Therefore, the general scientific consensus is that the narwhal tusk is a sexual trait, much like the antlers of a stag, the mane of a lion, or the feathers of a peacock. Vestigial teeth
The tusks are surrounded posteriorly, ventrally, and laterally by several small vestigial teeth which vary in morphology and histology. These teeth can sometimes be extruded from the bone, but mainly reside inside open tooth sockets in the narwhal's snout alongside the tusks. The varied morphology and anatomy of small teeth indicate a path of evolutionary obsolescence, leaving the narwhal's mouth toothless. Genome
A 2.3 GB genome sequence has been assembled from multiple Illumina libraries. The geno

Narwhal - Wikipedia

Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links

The rubbing of tusks together by male narwhals is thought to be a method of communicating information about characteristics of the water each has traveled through, rather than the previously assumed posturing display of aggressive male-to-male rivalry. In August 2016, drone videos of narwhals surface-feeding in Tremblay Sound, Nunavut showed that the tusk was used to tap and stun small Arctic cod, making them easier to catch for feeding. The tusk cannot serve a critical function for the animal's survival, as females — which generally do not have tusks — typically live longer than males. Therefore, the general scientific consensus is that the narwhal tusk is a sexual trait, much like the antlers of a stag, the mane of a lion, or the feathers of a peacock. Vestigial teeth
The tusks are surrounded posteriorly, ventrally, and laterally by several small vestigial teeth which vary in morphology and histology. These teeth can sometimes be extruded from the bone, but mainly reside inside open tooth sockets in the narwhal's snout alongside the tusks. The varied morphology and anatomy of small teeth indicate a path of evolutionary obsolescence, leaving the narwhal's mouth toothless. Genome
A 2.3 GB genome sequence has been assembled from multiple Illumina libraries. The geno

For a dentist, the narwhal's smile is a mystery of evolution | Smithsonian Insider For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution Nweeia and a team of dentists and zoologists from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Harvard and other research organizations recently took a very close look at the dentition of the narwhal’s mouth. They studied more than 130 skulls in museum collections and 21 skulls of narwhals killed by native hunters in Canada. In a new paper published in The Anatomical Record, the team determined: The long spiral tusk of the male narwhal is one of a pair of canine teeth positioned horizontally in the animal’s skull. They determined it was a canine and not an incisor because the tusk originates in the narwhal’s maxillary bone, where canine teeth in mammals originate. This is the first study to confirm the tusk as a canine tooth. In most mammals, canines are vertical in the mouth and are used for holding food or as weapons. It is the left tooth of the pair that grows into a long tusk that erupts through the narwhal’s upper lip. The right canine tooth is also a tusk but it remains embedded in the narwhal’s skull unerrupted. Only occasionally do both tusks erupt.

Nweeia and a team of dentists and zoologists from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Harvard and other research organizations recently took a very close look at the dentition of the narwhal’s mouth. They studied more than 130 skulls in museum collections and 21 skulls of narwhals killed by native hunters in Canada. In a new paper published in The Anatomical Record, the team determined: The long spiral tusk of the male narwhal is one of a pair of canine teeth positioned horizontally in the animal’s skull. They determined it was a canine and not an incisor because the tusk originates in the narwhal’s maxillary bone, where canine teeth in mammals originate. This is the first study to confirm the tusk as a canine tooth. In most mammals, canines are vertical in the mouth and are used for holding food or as weapons. It is the left tooth of the pair that grows into a long tusk that erupts through the narwhal’s upper lip. The right canine tooth is also a tusk but it remains embedded in the narwhal’s skull unerrupted. Only occasionally do both tusks erupt.

Narwhal | WWF Arctic Narwhal
Narwhal
FEATURED
Video reveals clue to the mystery of the narwhal tusk
Narwhal facts
Tracking narwhals from space
What is a narwhal's tusk for?
Sensing
Stunning
Threats to narwhals
Climate change
Oil and gas development
Ocean noise
How we work
A quieter ocean for Arctic whales
Reducing shipping impacts in Greenland
Tools for mariners
Understanding narwhals
News
WWF launches twitter campaign to #SaveTheIceEdge
Arctic lifeline could be cut by expanding off-shore oil drilling
Delivery of WWF Underwater Noise petition to Arctic Council
Stories
Underwater noise regulation: Time for Arctic coastal states to get on board
Making a difference for the ice edge
Life on the edge
Special IPCC report on the Oceans and Cryosphere
Publications
The Circle 04.19
Canada’s Arctic Marine Atlas
The Circle 03.18
Greenland Mariners' Guide
Marine mammals of Hudson Strait
Health effects in Arctic wildlife linked to chemical exposures
Recommended reading
Protect Arctic whales from underwater noise
Bowhead whale
 Narwhal | WWF Arctic
© Paul Nicklen / National Geographic Stock / WWF-Canada
Narwhal
The narwhal is famous for the long ivory tusk which spirals counter-clockwise several feet forward from its upper lip. The tusk is actually the whale's upper left canine tooth. Male narwhals commonly have a single tusk, but they sometimes have two tusks, or none at all. Around 15% of females have a tusk. FEATURED
Video reveals clue to the mystery of the narwhal tusk
Footage captured by aerial drones as part of a narwhal research camp in Tremblay Sound, Nunavut, is giving biologists new insights into the behaviour of one of the world’s most mysterious whales. Read more
Narwhal facts
scientific name
Monodon monoceros
adult weight
males up to 1900 kg; females up to 1550 kg
adult length
males up to 5.4 m; females up to 4.9 m, plus tusk up to 3 m
population
> 120,000 mature individuals
status
Least Concern (IUCN)
© IUCN
Tracking narwhals from space
Satellite tags allow us to follow the movements of narwhal as they go about their annual feeding and reproductive routines, in order to better understand these unique creatures. Read more
What is a narwhal's tusk for? For centuries now, people have puzzled over the narwhal's unicorn-like tusk, and just what purpose it serves.

Narwhal | WWF Arctic

Narwhal
Narwhal
FEATURED
Video reveals clue to the mystery of the narwhal tusk
Narwhal facts
Tracking narwhals from space
What is a narwhal's tusk for?
Sensing
Stunning
Threats to narwhals
Climate change
Oil and gas development
Ocean noise
How we work
A quieter ocean for Arctic whales
Reducing shipping impacts in Greenland
Tools for mariners
Understanding narwhals
News
WWF launches twitter campaign to #SaveTheIceEdge
Arctic lifeline could be cut by expanding off-shore oil drilling
Delivery of WWF Underwater Noise petition to Arctic Council
Stories
Underwater noise regulation: Time for Arctic coastal states to get on board
Making a difference for the ice edge
Life on the edge
Special IPCC report on the Oceans and Cryosphere
Publications
The Circle 04.19
Canada’s Arctic Marine Atlas
The Circle 03.18
Greenland Mariners' Guide
Marine mammals of Hudson Strait
Health effects in Arctic wildlife linked to chemical exposures
Recommended reading
Protect Arctic whales from underwater noise
Bowhead whale

Narwhal | WWF Arctic
© Paul Nicklen / National Geographic Stock / WWF-Canada
Narwhal
The narwhal is famous for the long ivory tusk which spirals counter-clockwise several feet forward from its upper lip. The tusk is actually the whale's upper left canine tooth. Male narwhals commonly have a single tusk, but they sometimes have two tusks, or none at all. Around 15% of females have a tusk. FEATURED
Video reveals clue to the mystery of the narwhal tusk
Footage captured by aerial drones as part of a narwhal research camp in Tremblay Sound, Nunavut, is giving biologists new insights into the behaviour of one of the world’s most mysterious whales. Read more
Narwhal facts
scientific name
Monodon monoceros
adult weight
males up to 1900 kg; females up to 1550 kg
adult length
males up to 5.4 m; females up to 4.9 m, plus tusk up to 3 m
population
> 120,000 mature individuals
status
Least Concern (IUCN)
© IUCN
Tracking narwhals from space
Satellite tags allow us to follow the movements of narwhal as they go about their annual feeding and reproductive routines, in order to better understand these unique creatures. Read more
What is a narwhal's tusk for? For centuries now, people have puzzled over the narwhal's unicorn-like tusk, and just what purpose it serves.

Polar Science Center » Narwhal FAQ Narwhal FAQ
Narwhal FAQ
What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for?
What do narwhals look like?
Where does the word ‘narwhal’ come from?
What are the reproductive patterns of narwhals?
How long do narwhals live?
How many narwhals are there in the world? Is it all one population?
Do narwhals travel in pods and how big are pods?
How do you figure out where narwhals go and what they do underwater?
Do narwhals migrate and what is their seasonal cycle?
How deep do narwhals dive?
How do narwhals make such deep dives?
Why do they make deep dives?
How do you know what narwhals eat if you can’t see them underwater?
Do narwhals like sea ice?
What is an ice entrapment?
Do narwhals make noises?
Do research collaborations involve native communities?
Why is the narwhal important to native communities?
Why is it important to study narwhals?
What threats are currently facing narwhals?
Can narwhals survive climate change?
Where can I find references for all of the above?
Other useful links to narwhal information
 Polar Science Center » Narwhal FAQ
Polar Science Center
RP
Laidre
Narwhal FAQ
Narwhal FAQ
I have received many good questions from the public, students, and the press about narwhals. In the interest of making the information available to everyone, I have developed this “Narwhal FAQ” page. Hopefully you find the answer to your question below. What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for? The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but unlike all other toothed whales it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead, the male develops a long straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes 2-3 m out of the upper left jaw. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. The tusk is unique to male narwhals. Very rarely, a female will grow a tusk, or a narwhal will grow two tusks. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages and became the source of the unicorn myth.

Polar Science Center » Narwhal FAQ

Polar Science Center » Narwhal FAQ
Polar Science Center
RP
Laidre
Narwhal FAQ
Narwhal FAQ
I have received many good questions from the public, students, and the press about narwhals. In the interest of making the information available to everyone, I have developed this “Narwhal FAQ” page. Hopefully you find the answer to your question below. What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for? The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but unlike all other toothed whales it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead, the male develops a long straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes 2-3 m out of the upper left jaw. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. The tusk is unique to male narwhals. Very rarely, a female will grow a tusk, or a narwhal will grow two tusks. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages and became the source of the unicorn myth.

What is a narwhal? : Ocean Exploration Facts: NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research What is a narwhal?
What is a narwhal?
A narwhal is a medium-sized, toothed whale that is only found in Arctic waters.
 Image courtesy of Kristin Laidre. Download image (jpg, 80 KB). The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but is different from all other toothed whales in that it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead, male narwhals have a single long, straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes two to three meters out of the upper left jaw. Females almost never have a tusk. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. It is this tusk for which narwhals are best known. There are many legends about the tusk of the narwhal – it is essentially the origin of the myth of the unicorn as European whalers that were in the Arctic would catch narwhals and bring tusks back to Europe with great stories about what kind of animals the tusks were attached to. But in terms of the biology of the animal, the tusk is actually used for social structure, to establish dominance hierarchies and ranks of males within narwhal pods. Narwhals have a black and white mottled skin pattern and are white underneath.

What is a narwhal? : Ocean Exploration Facts: NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research

What is a narwhal?
What is a narwhal?
A narwhal is a medium-sized, toothed whale that is only found in Arctic waters.

Image courtesy of Kristin Laidre. Download image (jpg, 80 KB). The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but is different from all other toothed whales in that it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead, male narwhals have a single long, straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes two to three meters out of the upper left jaw. Females almost never have a tusk. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. It is this tusk for which narwhals are best known. There are many legends about the tusk of the narwhal – it is essentially the origin of the myth of the unicorn as European whalers that were in the Arctic would catch narwhals and bring tusks back to Europe with great stories about what kind of animals the tusks were attached to. But in terms of the biology of the animal, the tusk is actually used for social structure, to establish dominance hierarchies and ranks of males within narwhal pods. Narwhals have a black and white mottled skin pattern and are white underneath.

Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes? | Pets on Mom.com Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes?
Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes?
Blowhole Biology
One-Hole Whales
Two-Hole Whales
Why Have Two?
Do Narwhals Have Blowholes?
Narwhals are Whales
Description of a Narwhal
Survival Under the Ice
The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk
 During this period they dive deep and have been tracked swimming down more than a mile in search of fish, squid and other prey. Though the deep water remains unfrozen, narwhals must eventually surface to breathe. They use their melons and tusks to break through thin surface ice as it freezes, to their keep breathing holes open; the opening must be large enough for the narwhal to get his blowhole out of the water or he will drown. A sudden hard freeze or a shift in the ice can quickly kill all the narwhals in an area. The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk
The most obvious feature of a male narwhal is his tusk; females may sometimes grow tusks but never to the extent that the males do. The tusk is actually a single tooth -- narwhals only have two teeth -- that grows out through the whale’s upper lip and can easily reach up to 8 feet in length. The other tooth normally never gets long, though some double-horned narwhals have been seen. The tooth grows in a counter-clockwise spiral and is now known to contain nerves that provide the narwhal with information about his environment.

Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes? | Pets on Mom.com

Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes?
Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes?
Blowhole Biology
One-Hole Whales
Two-Hole Whales
Why Have Two?
Do Narwhals Have Blowholes?
Narwhals are Whales
Description of a Narwhal
Survival Under the Ice
The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk

During this period they dive deep and have been tracked swimming down more than a mile in search of fish, squid and other prey. Though the deep water remains unfrozen, narwhals must eventually surface to breathe. They use their melons and tusks to break through thin surface ice as it freezes, to their keep breathing holes open; the opening must be large enough for the narwhal to get his blowhole out of the water or he will drown. A sudden hard freeze or a shift in the ice can quickly kill all the narwhals in an area. The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk
The most obvious feature of a male narwhal is his tusk; females may sometimes grow tusks but never to the extent that the males do. The tusk is actually a single tooth -- narwhals only have two teeth -- that grows out through the whale’s upper lip and can easily reach up to 8 feet in length. The other tooth normally never gets long, though some double-horned narwhals have been seen. The tooth grows in a counter-clockwise spiral and is now known to contain nerves that provide the narwhal with information about his environment.

Narwhal Animal Facts - Unicorn of the Sea Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Unicorns Really Do Exist
Fast Facts: Narwhal
The Unicorn Horn
Description
Behavior
Lifespan and Conservation Status
References
 Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Infraorder: Cetacea
Family: Monodontidae
Fun Fact: The narwhal's tusk is on its left side. Males have the "horn," but only 15% of females have one. The Unicorn Horn
A male narwhal has a single long tusk. The tusk is a hollow left-handed spiral helix that grows from the left side of the upper jaw and through the whale's lip. The tusk grows throughout the whale's life, reaching a length from 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft) and weight of approximately 10 kg (22 lb).

Narwhal Animal Facts - Unicorn of the Sea

Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Unicorns Really Do Exist
Fast Facts: Narwhal
The Unicorn Horn
Description
Behavior
Lifespan and Conservation Status
References

Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Infraorder: Cetacea
Family: Monodontidae
Fun Fact: The narwhal's tusk is on its left side. Males have the "horn," but only 15% of females have one. The Unicorn Horn
A male narwhal has a single long tusk. The tusk is a hollow left-handed spiral helix that grows from the left side of the upper jaw and through the whale's lip. The tusk grows throughout the whale's life, reaching a length from 1.5 to 3.1 m (4.9 to 10.2 ft) and weight of approximately 10 kg (22 lb).

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? Written by Bryan Harding
in
Cetacea (Dolphins, Porpoises and Whales)
Narwhals have a horn or tusk that protrudes from their front. In this article, we look at why narwhals have a horn and what they use it for. Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses. For more information on how narwhal’s use their horn, please read on. Narwhals are medium-sized marine mammals with a characteristic tusk or horn that protrudes through the top of their heads. It resembles a unicorn’s horn, which made them known in the past as the “unicorns of the sea.” The name narwhal is derived from the Norse word “nar” which means corpse, and “hval” which means whale. This name is that the body of the narwhal, which is dappled gray, looks like that of a drowned soldier.

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? Written by Bryan Harding
in
Cetacea (Dolphins, Porpoises and Whales)
Narwhals have a horn or tusk that protrudes from their front. In this article, we look at why narwhals have a horn and what they use it for. Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses. For more information on how narwhal’s use their horn, please read on. Narwhals are medium-sized marine mammals with a characteristic tusk or horn that protrudes through the top of their heads. It resembles a unicorn’s horn, which made them known in the past as the “unicorns of the sea.” The name narwhal is derived from the Norse word “nar” which means corpse, and “hval” which means whale. This name is that the body of the narwhal, which is dappled gray, looks like that of a drowned soldier.

Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes? | Pets on Mom.com Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes?
Why Do Whales Have Two Blow Holes?
Blowhole Biology
One-Hole Whales
Two-Hole Whales
Why Have Two?
Do Narwhals Have Blowholes?
Narwhals are Whales
Description of a Narwhal
Survival Under the Ice
The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk
 The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk
The most obvious feature of a male narwhal is his tusk; females may sometimes grow tusks but never to the extent that the males do. The tusk is actually a single tooth -- narwhals only have two teeth -- that grows out through the whale’s upper lip and can easily reach up to 8 feet in length. The other tooth normally never gets long, though some double-horned narwhals have been seen. The tooth grows in a counter-clockwise spiral and is now known to contain nerves that provide the narwhal with information about his environment. References
University of Washington: Narwhal FAQ
Messiah College: The Narwhal – Basic Facts
Harvard University Gazette: Marine Biology Mystery Solved
University of California San Diego: Voices in the Sea:

The Narwhal’s Distinctive Tusk
The most obvious feature of a male narwhal is his tusk; females may sometimes grow tusks but never to the extent that the males do. The tusk is actually a single tooth -- narwhals only have two teeth -- that grows out through the whale’s upper lip and can easily reach up to 8 feet in length. The other tooth normally never gets long, though some double-horned narwhals have been seen. The tooth grows in a counter-clockwise spiral and is now known to contain nerves that provide the narwhal with information about his environment. References
University of Washington: Narwhal FAQ
Messiah College: The Narwhal – Basic Facts
Harvard University Gazette: Marine Biology Mystery Solved
University of California San Diego: Voices in the Sea:

Narwhal Animal Facts - Unicorn of the Sea Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Unicorns Really Do Exist
Fast Facts: Narwhal
The Unicorn Horn
Description
Behavior
Lifespan and Conservation Status
References
 Narwhal Animal Facts - Unicorn of the Sea
Science, Tech, Math › Animals & Nature
Facts About Narwhals, the Unicorns of the Sea
Unicorns Really Do Exist
The narwhal's unicorn horn is actually special type of tooth. Dave Fleetham / Design Pics / Getty Images
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Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Chemistry Expert
Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College
Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. our editorial process
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Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Updated December 02, 2018
The narwhal or narwhale ( Monodon monocerus) is a medium-sized toothed whale or odontocete, best known for its long spiral tusk that many people associate with the unicorn myth. The tusk is not a horn, but a protruding canine tooth. The narwhal and the only other living member of the Monodontidae family, the beluga whale, live in the world's arctic waters . Carl Linnaeus described the narwhal in his 1758 catalog Systema Naturae. The name narwhal comes from the Norse word nar, which means corpse, combined with whal, for whale. This common name refers to the mottled gray-over-white color of the whale, which causes it to somewhat resemble a drowned corpse. The scientific name Monodon monocerus comes from the Greek phrase meaning "one tooth one horn".

NARWHAL
 Whale Information Sheets
Anatomy and Behavior
Extreme Whales
Whale Myths
Whale Evolution
Whale Classification
Whale Glossary
Whale Activities
Whale Index
NARWHAL
Monodon monoceros
Narwhal Printout
Narwhal Quiz
Narwhal Connect-the-Dots
The Narwhal (meaning "corpse whale" in Old Norse) is a rarely seen Arctic whale. This social whale is known for the very long tooth that males have. Very little is known about this whale. THE TOOTH
All narwhals have two teeth in their upper jaw. After the first year of a male narwhal's life, its left tooth grows outward, spirally. This long, single tooth projects from its upper jaw and can grow to be 7-10 feet (2-3 m) long. Tusks are usually twisted in a counterclockwise direction and have a hollow interior. The tusk's function is uncertain, perhaps used as a formidable jousting weapon in courtship and dominance rivalry, in obtaining food, and/or for channeling and amplifying sonar pulses (which they emit). The tusk is not used in hunting. Tusking is a behavior in which male narwhals rub their tusks together - perhaps determining dominance in the group.

NARWHAL

Whale Information Sheets
Anatomy and Behavior
Extreme Whales
Whale Myths
Whale Evolution
Whale Classification
Whale Glossary
Whale Activities
Whale Index
NARWHAL
Monodon monoceros
Narwhal Printout
Narwhal Quiz
Narwhal Connect-the-Dots
The Narwhal (meaning "corpse whale" in Old Norse) is a rarely seen Arctic whale. This social whale is known for the very long tooth that males have. Very little is known about this whale. THE TOOTH
All narwhals have two teeth in their upper jaw. After the first year of a male narwhal's life, its left tooth grows outward, spirally. This long, single tooth projects from its upper jaw and can grow to be 7-10 feet (2-3 m) long. Tusks are usually twisted in a counterclockwise direction and have a hollow interior. The tusk's function is uncertain, perhaps used as a formidable jousting weapon in courtship and dominance rivalry, in obtaining food, and/or for channeling and amplifying sonar pulses (which they emit). The tusk is not used in hunting. Tusking is a behavior in which male narwhals rub their tusks together - perhaps determining dominance in the group.

Narwhal Facts - Earth's Endangered Creatures Narwhal
Narwhal
Endangered Species of Our Planet
 Narwhal Facts - Earth's Endangered Creatures
Narwhal
Wikipedia Article
Copyright Notice: This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Narwhal". The Narwhal ( Monodon monoceros) is an Arctic species of cetacean. It is a creature rarely found south of latitude 70°N. It is one of two species of white whale in the Monodontidae family (the other is the beluga whale). It is possibly also related to the Irrawaddy dolphin. Description
The most conspicuous characteristic of male narwhal is their single extraordinarily long tusk, an incisor that projects from the left side of the upper jaw and forms a left-handed helix. The tusk can be up to 3 metres (nearly 10 ft) long (compared with a body length of 7–8 m [23–26 ft]) and weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 lbs). About one in 500 males has two tusks, which occurs when the right tooth, normally small, also grows out. Although rare, a female narwhal may also produce a tusk.

Narwhal
Narwhal
Endangered Species of Our Planet

Narwhal Facts - Earth's Endangered Creatures
Narwhal
Wikipedia Article
Copyright Notice: This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Narwhal". The Narwhal ( Monodon monoceros) is an Arctic species of cetacean. It is a creature rarely found south of latitude 70°N. It is one of two species of white whale in the Monodontidae family (the other is the beluga whale). It is possibly also related to the Irrawaddy dolphin. Description
The most conspicuous characteristic of male narwhal is their single extraordinarily long tusk, an incisor that projects from the left side of the upper jaw and forms a left-handed helix. The tusk can be up to 3 metres (nearly 10 ft) long (compared with a body length of 7–8 m [23–26 ft]) and weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 lbs). About one in 500 males has two tusks, which occurs when the right tooth, normally small, also grows out. Although rare, a female narwhal may also produce a tusk.

Narwhals of the Arctic Facts and Adaptations - Monodon monoceros Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros
Medium sized toothed whales with just the single long tusk is present in males and about 15% of females. Animals of the far north and the original unicorns.
What are Narwhals like? how do they survive?
Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups.
Historically
Narwhal Adaptations:
 What has relatively recently been found is that the tusks are highly sensitive sense organs thanks to all those tiny little channels. They will be able to detect water pressure (and so depth), temperature and salinity. However discovering the role of the tusk as a sense organ raises as many questions as it answers, if it is so sensitive and so useful, then why don't females always have one? Anything that could aid finding food would be of more value to females than males as they need the extra nutrition during pregnancy and during suckling. Historically
From Viking times and through to the Middle Ages in Europe narwhal tusks were thought to be the horns of unicorns. Merchants kept their true origin secret and they were sold for huge prices, up to ten times the equivalent weight in gold thanks to their reputed magical powers. They were thought to neutralize any poison and so were used to make drinking goblets, they could also cure melancholia (they couldn't really), powdered unicorn horn was a vital part of a physicians medicine chest. Queen Elizabeth of England was given a unicorns (narwhals) horn in the 1500's worth £10,000 at the time, the price of a small castle. They were sometimes used in the thrones and crown jewels of European Royalty. Narwhal skull with two tusks
Austrian Imperial Crown Jewels - Narwhal tusk staff to sceptre
Narwhal tusk mounted as a unicorn horn - Cieszyn muzeum Poland
Narwhal Adaptations:

Narwhals of the Arctic Facts and Adaptations - Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros
Medium sized toothed whales with just the single long tusk is present in males and about 15% of females. Animals of the far north and the original unicorns.
What are Narwhals like? how do they survive?
Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups.
Historically
Narwhal Adaptations:

How many narwhals are left in the world? - Quora How many narwhals are left in the world?
How many narwhals are left in the world? Narwhals are related to bottlenose dolphins, belugas, harbor porpoises, and orcas. The narwhal males are distinguished by a long, straight, helical tusk, which is an elongated upper left canine. [ 1]
The spiral “tusk” is actually a tooth. Narwhale males have a characteristic left front tooth extending nearly 8 feet. It grows right through the upper lip. The length of tooth varies with age. Female tusks are shorter as compared to male tusks. These tusks are not believed to be used in any kind of “spearfishing”. Narwhales are an Arctic species and are found mainly above the Arctic Circle right to the edge of the permanent ice. Its diet consists of a variety of squid, fish and crustaceans.

How many narwhals are left in the world? - Quora

How many narwhals are left in the world?
How many narwhals are left in the world?

Narwhals are related to bottlenose dolphins, belugas, harbor porpoises, and orcas. The narwhal males are distinguished by a long, straight, helical tusk, which is an elongated upper left canine. [ 1]
The spiral “tusk” is actually a tooth. Narwhale males have a characteristic left front tooth extending nearly 8 feet. It grows right through the upper lip. The length of tooth varies with age. Female tusks are shorter as compared to male tusks. These tusks are not believed to be used in any kind of “spearfishing”. Narwhales are an Arctic species and are found mainly above the Arctic Circle right to the edge of the permanent ice. Its diet consists of a variety of squid, fish and crustaceans.

Narwhal Facts for Kids | KidzSearch.com Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Description
Habitat
References
Other websites
Pictures
 A female can give birth once every three years, after a pregnancy of 15 months. At birth, the baby narwhal is about five feet long and weighs about 180 pounds. All narwhals have two teeth in their upper jaw and a tusk. After the first year of a male narwhal's life, its left tooth grows outward, spirally. There are some narwhals that are double-tusked, but they are not as common. This long, single or double tooth projects from its upper jaw and can grow to be 8.75 feet (2.7 meters) long. Tusks are usually twisted in a counterclockwise direction and are hollow inside. The tusk's function is uncertain, perhaps used as a formidable jousting weapon in courtship and dominance rivalry, in getting food, and/or for channeling and amplifying sonar pulses (which they emit). The tusk is not used in hunting. Long ago, narwhal sightings probably reinforced (or started) the unicorn legends.

Narwhal Facts for Kids | KidzSearch.com

Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Description
Habitat
References
Other websites
Pictures

A female can give birth once every three years, after a pregnancy of 15 months. At birth, the baby narwhal is about five feet long and weighs about 180 pounds. All narwhals have two teeth in their upper jaw and a tusk. After the first year of a male narwhal's life, its left tooth grows outward, spirally. There are some narwhals that are double-tusked, but they are not as common. This long, single or double tooth projects from its upper jaw and can grow to be 8.75 feet (2.7 meters) long. Tusks are usually twisted in a counterclockwise direction and are hollow inside. The tusk's function is uncertain, perhaps used as a formidable jousting weapon in courtship and dominance rivalry, in getting food, and/or for channeling and amplifying sonar pulses (which they emit). The tusk is not used in hunting. Long ago, narwhal sightings probably reinforced (or started) the unicorn legends.

Narwhals of the Arctic Facts and Adaptations - Monodon monoceros Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros

Narwhals - Facts and Adaptations
Monodon monoceros
Medium sized toothed whales with just the single long tusk is present in males and about 15% of females. Animals of the far north and the original unicorns.
What are Narwhals like? how do they survive?
Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups.
Historically
Narwhal Adaptations:
 They belong to a group called the Cetaceans that includes the large baleen whales such as blue and humpbacks and also smaller toothed whales like orcas, dolphins and porpoises. Narwhals are medium sized toothed whales although they don't have any teeth other than the tusk, there are vestigial teeth when they are young, but these never erupt and disappear before maturity. Narwhals are very difficult to study as they are large fast swimming animals that live in very cold seas in very remote parts of the world. It is difficult and costly to get to where they live and difficult and costly to find out much about them when you are there, consequently their biology is not very well known. Inuit people's hunt narwhals for food which provide some specimens that may be studied to provide information about them. They can also be tracked by satellite transmitters attached to their backs. Narwhals live in groups of 10-100 individuals though can sometimes form much larger groups. Narwhal Tusks
The most obvious and striking feature of narwhals is the tusk. This is an elongated canine tooth and is mainly found in males though around 15% of females also have a tusk albeit shorter and with a less pronounced spiral. The tusk is the left upper canine tooth and has a fairly tight left handed spiral which is thought to keep the tusk straight as it grows rather than curving as in other animals with tusks such as elephants and pigs which would cause problems when swimming.

Narwhal - Wikipedia Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 M. monoceros
Binomial name
Monodon monoceros
Linnaeus, 1758

The frequent (solid) and rare (striped) occurrence of narwhal populations
The narwhal or narwhale ( Monodon monoceros) is a medium-sized toothed whale that possesses a large " tusk " from a protruding canine tooth. It lives year-round in the Arctic waters around Greenland, Canada, and Russia. It is one of two living species of whale in the family Monodontidae, along with the beluga whale. The narwhal males are distinguished by a long, straight, helical tusk, which is an elongated upper left canine. The narwhal was one of many species described by Carl Linnaeus in his publication Systema Naturae in 1758. Like the beluga, narwhals are medium-sized whales. For both sexes, excluding the male's tusk, the total body size can range from 3.95 to 5.5 m (13 to 18 ft); the males are slightly larger than the females. The average weight of an adult narwhal is 800 to 1,600 kg (1,760 to 3,530 lb). At around 11 to 13 years old, the males become sexually mature;

Narwhal - Wikipedia

M. monoceros
Binomial name
Monodon monoceros
Linnaeus, 1758

The frequent (solid) and rare (striped) occurrence of narwhal populations
The narwhal or narwhale ( Monodon monoceros) is a medium-sized toothed whale that possesses a large " tusk " from a protruding canine tooth. It lives year-round in the Arctic waters around Greenland, Canada, and Russia. It is one of two living species of whale in the family Monodontidae, along with the beluga whale. The narwhal males are distinguished by a long, straight, helical tusk, which is an elongated upper left canine. The narwhal was one of many species described by Carl Linnaeus in his publication Systema Naturae in 1758. Like the beluga, narwhals are medium-sized whales. For both sexes, excluding the male's tusk, the total body size can range from 3.95 to 5.5 m (13 to 18 ft); the males are slightly larger than the females. The average weight of an adult narwhal is 800 to 1,600 kg (1,760 to 3,530 lb). At around 11 to 13 years old, the males become sexually mature;

Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn? – North American Nature Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Why Do Narwhal’s Have a Horn?
Narwhals use their horns for echolocation, sparring, mating rituals, and other uses.
What Do Narwhal’s Use Their Horns For?
Catch Food
Sensory Organ
Echolocation
Weapons
To Attract Females
Do Female Narwhal’s Have Tusks?
What Is A Narwhal’s Horn Made Of?
Where Does The Horn Of A Narwhal Come From?
 For more information on how narwhal’s use their horn, please read on. Narwhals are medium-sized marine mammals with a characteristic tusk or horn that protrudes through the top of their heads. It resembles a unicorn’s horn, which made them known in the past as the “unicorns of the sea.” The name narwhal is derived from the Norse word “nar” which means corpse, and “hval” which means whale. This name is that the body of the narwhal, which is dappled gray, looks like that of a drowned soldier. Its scientific name, which is Monodon monoceros, means “one tooth, one horn.” The shape of a narwhal’s body is like a sausage. They have a round head but without a beak. They have a ridge on their backs instead of a fin and short blunt flippers with uncurled edges. They have tail flukes that are odd-shaped.

For more information on how narwhal’s use their horn, please read on. Narwhals are medium-sized marine mammals with a characteristic tusk or horn that protrudes through the top of their heads. It resembles a unicorn’s horn, which made them known in the past as the “unicorns of the sea.” The name narwhal is derived from the Norse word “nar” which means corpse, and “hval” which means whale. This name is that the body of the narwhal, which is dappled gray, looks like that of a drowned soldier. Its scientific name, which is Monodon monoceros, means “one tooth, one horn.” The shape of a narwhal’s body is like a sausage. They have a round head but without a beak. They have a ridge on their backs instead of a fin and short blunt flippers with uncurled edges. They have tail flukes that are odd-shaped.

Narwhal Facts | Whale Facts Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Physical Characteristics
Diet
Migration
Social Structure and Communication
Breeding
Endangered Status
10 Astonishing narwhal facts
 Narwhal Facts | Whale Facts
Narwhal Facts
The narwhal whale is a medium sized marine mammal that can be found swimming in the Canadian Arctic and Greenlandic waters all year round. This marine mammal belongs to the toothed whale suborder and is part of the cetacean species which also includes dolphins and porpoises. The name “Narwhal” comes from the old Norse word “nar”, which means “corpse like” when describing its grayish molted coloring which resembles the corpse of drowned sailors. In addition to being called the narhwal these marine animals have also gone by the names of Monodon monoceros (one-toothed) and Qilalugaq qernartaq (the one that points to the sky). Physical Characteristics
The narwhal whale is unique animal among the whale species as it is the only cetacean that is known to have a long ivory tusk that extends from the upper left side of its jaw, which can measure up to 7 – 10 feet in length. On very rare occasions the male narwhal may also grow a second tusk, however this is extremely unlikely. Female narwhals on the other hand rarely grow a visible tusk. As for their size these marine mammals can grow to be 13 -20 ft. long and weigh as much as 3,500 pounds. In terms of appearance the narwhals body is thickest in the midsection and tapers down towards the head and flukes.

Narwhal Facts | Whale Facts

Narwhal Facts
Narwhal Facts
Physical Characteristics
Diet
Migration
Social Structure and Communication
Breeding
Endangered Status
10 Astonishing narwhal facts

Narwhal Facts | Whale Facts
Narwhal Facts
The narwhal whale is a medium sized marine mammal that can be found swimming in the Canadian Arctic and Greenlandic waters all year round. This marine mammal belongs to the toothed whale suborder and is part of the cetacean species which also includes dolphins and porpoises. The name “Narwhal” comes from the old Norse word “nar”, which means “corpse like” when describing its grayish molted coloring which resembles the corpse of drowned sailors. In addition to being called the narhwal these marine animals have also gone by the names of Monodon monoceros (one-toothed) and Qilalugaq qernartaq (the one that points to the sky). Physical Characteristics
The narwhal whale is unique animal among the whale species as it is the only cetacean that is known to have a long ivory tusk that extends from the upper left side of its jaw, which can measure up to 7 – 10 feet in length. On very rare occasions the male narwhal may also grow a second tusk, however this is extremely unlikely. Female narwhals on the other hand rarely grow a visible tusk. As for their size these marine mammals can grow to be 13 -20 ft. long and weigh as much as 3,500 pounds. In terms of appearance the narwhals body is thickest in the midsection and tapers down towards the head and flukes.

Narwhal - Wikipedia Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Taxonomy and etymology
Description
Tusk
Vestigial teeth
Genome
Distribution
Behaviour
Social
Migration
Diet
Diving
Communication
Breeding and early life
Life span and mortality
Predation and hunting
Conservation issues
Cultural depictions
In legend
In literature and art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Infraorder: Cetacea
Family: Monodontidae
Genus: Monodon
Linnaeus, 1758
Species: M. monoceros
Binomial name
Monodon monoceros
Linnaeus, 1758

The frequent (solid) and rare (striped) occurrence of narwhal populations
The narwhal or narwhale ( Monodon monoceros) is a medium-sized toothed whale that possesses a large " tusk " from a protruding canine tooth. It lives year-round in the Arctic waters around Greenland, Canada, and Russia. It is one of two living species of whale in the family Monodontidae, along with the beluga whale. The narwhal males are distinguished by a long, straight, helical tusk, which is an elongated upper left canine. The narwhal was one of many species described by Carl Linnaeus in his publication Systema Naturae in 1758.

Narwhal - Wikipedia

Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Infraorder: Cetacea
Family: Monodontidae
Genus: Monodon
Linnaeus, 1758
Species: M. monoceros
Binomial name
Monodon monoceros
Linnaeus, 1758

The frequent (solid) and rare (striped) occurrence of narwhal populations
The narwhal or narwhale ( Monodon monoceros) is a medium-sized toothed whale that possesses a large " tusk " from a protruding canine tooth. It lives year-round in the Arctic waters around Greenland, Canada, and Russia. It is one of two living species of whale in the family Monodontidae, along with the beluga whale. The narwhal males are distinguished by a long, straight, helical tusk, which is an elongated upper left canine. The narwhal was one of many species described by Carl Linnaeus in his publication Systema Naturae in 1758.

Narwhal FAQ – Kristin Laidre Narwhal FAQ
Narwhal FAQ
What is the narwhal tusk and what is it used for?
What do narwhals look like?
Where does the word ‘narwhal’ come from?
What are the reproductive patterns of narwhals?
How long do narwhals live?
How many narwhals are there in the world? Is it all one population?
Do narwhals travel in pods and how big are pods?
How do you figure out where narwhals go and what they do underwater?
Do narwhals migrate and what is their seasonal cycle?
How deep do narwhals dive?
How do narwhals make such deep dives?
Why do they make deep dives?
How do you know what narwhals eat if you can’t see them underwater?
Do narwhals like sea ice?
What is an ice entrapment?
Do narwhals make noises?
Do research collaborations involve native communities?
Why is the narwhal important to native communities?
Why is it important to study narwhals?
What threats are currently facing narwhals?
Can narwhals survive climate change?
Where can I find references for all of the above?
Other useful links to narwhal information
 Very rarely, a female will grow a tusk, or a narwhal will grow two tusks. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages and became the source of the unicorn myth. The tusks were sold without a good description of the animal from which they came and inspired a great deal of fantasy. To some extent, the tusks still inspire fantasies, as many explanations have been proposed for the purpose of the tusk, including: breaking ice, swordfighting, spearing fish for food, or for digging in the bottom the sea. In fact, none of these behaviors have ever been observed. One thing that is clear, is that the tusk can not serve a critical function for narwhals’ survival because females, who do not have tusks, still manage to live longer than males and occur in the same areas while additionally being responsible for reproduction and calf rearing. The scientific consensus is that the narwhal tusk is a sexual trait, much like the antlers of a stag, the mane of a lion or the feathers of a peacock. Males use the tusk to determine social rank and compete for females. During the summertime in the northern Canadian high Arctic bays and fjords (long narrow inlets), male narwhals can be seen carefully crossing their tusks and making a strange, sad whistle.

Narwhal FAQ – Kristin Laidre

Very rarely, a female will grow a tusk, or a narwhal will grow two tusks. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages and became the source of the unicorn myth. The tusks were sold without a good description of the animal from which they came and inspired a great deal of fantasy. To some extent, the tusks still inspire fantasies, as many explanations have been proposed for the purpose of the tusk, including: breaking ice, swordfighting, spearing fish for food, or for digging in the bottom the sea. In fact, none of these behaviors have ever been observed. One thing that is clear, is that the tusk can not serve a critical function for narwhals’ survival because females, who do not have tusks, still manage to live longer than males and occur in the same areas while additionally being responsible for reproduction and calf rearing. The scientific consensus is that the narwhal tusk is a sexual trait, much like the antlers of a stag, the mane of a lion or the feathers of a peacock. Males use the tusk to determine social rank and compete for females. During the summertime in the northern Canadian high Arctic bays and fjords (long narrow inlets), male narwhals can be seen carefully crossing their tusks and making a strange, sad whistle.

Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic - Owlcation Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
A pod of narwhals
An Unusual and Intriguing Whale
Range and Habitat
Physical Features of the Animal
Length and Weight
Colour and Pattern
Tusks
Dorsal Ridge and Blubber
Upper and lower surfaces of a male narwhal
Breathing Mechanism
Narwhals on the north coast of Baffin Island
Echolocation
Function of Narwhal Tusks
Narwhal Tusks as Sense Organs
Another Possible Function of the Tusk
The Life of a Narwhal
The Pod
Diet
Vocalizations
This male narwhal was captured, satellite-tagged and then released.
Diving Feats
Adaptations for Diving
Reproduction
Predators
Population Status and Threats
IUCN Status
Climate Change
Mercury Absorption
Ice Entrapment
A narwhal skull with two tusks
The Future for Narwhals
References
Questions & Answers
© 2012 Linda Crampton
Comments
 The researchers believe that the structures are used as sense organs. Scientists experimented with a narwhal that was temporarily captured and then released unharmed. They found that when the salinity around the tusk was changed, the animal produced new brain waves. It's theorized that the ability to detect salinity changes enables narwhals to tell whether ice is forming in nearby water, which can be dangerous for the animals. It might also enable the whales to detect areas of water where specific prey are likely to be found. The narwhal's tusk is sensitive to temperature and pressure changes as well as chemicals. Narwhals come together to rub their tusks against those of other whales, a process known as "tusking". The whales are presumably detecting sensations from the contact. The rubbing may also remove algae and other deposits from the tusks. In earlier times, Viking traders sold narwhal tusk as unicorn horn.

Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic - Owlcation

Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
A pod of narwhals
An Unusual and Intriguing Whale
Range and Habitat
Physical Features of the Animal
Length and Weight
Colour and Pattern
Tusks
Dorsal Ridge and Blubber
Upper and lower surfaces of a male narwhal
Breathing Mechanism
Narwhals on the north coast of Baffin Island
Echolocation
Function of Narwhal Tusks
Narwhal Tusks as Sense Organs
Another Possible Function of the Tusk
The Life of a Narwhal
The Pod
Diet
Vocalizations
This male narwhal was captured, satellite-tagged and then released.
Diving Feats
Adaptations for Diving
Reproduction
Predators
Population Status and Threats
IUCN Status
Climate Change
Mercury Absorption
Ice Entrapment
A narwhal skull with two tusks
The Future for Narwhals
References
Questions & Answers
© 2012 Linda Crampton
Comments

The researchers believe that the structures are used as sense organs. Scientists experimented with a narwhal that was temporarily captured and then released unharmed. They found that when the salinity around the tusk was changed, the animal produced new brain waves. It's theorized that the ability to detect salinity changes enables narwhals to tell whether ice is forming in nearby water, which can be dangerous for the animals. It might also enable the whales to detect areas of water where specific prey are likely to be found. The narwhal's tusk is sensitive to temperature and pressure changes as well as chemicals. Narwhals come together to rub their tusks against those of other whales, a process known as "tusking". The whales are presumably detecting sensations from the contact. The rubbing may also remove algae and other deposits from the tusks. In earlier times, Viking traders sold narwhal tusk as unicorn horn.

Things You Never Knew About 15 Animals Who Live in the Arctic 15 things you never knew about the animals that live in the Arctic's extreme conditions
15 things you never knew about the animals that live in the Arctic's extreme conditions
Lindsay Mack
Wolves and owls live in this tough terrain.
Polar bears can smell a seal three feet below the snow.
You can thank polar bears for the word "Arctic."
The Beluga whale's distinctive forehead is called a melon.
A beluga whale at Vancouver Aquarium.
The Canada lynx has a foot like a snowshoe.
These lynx have built-in snowshoes.
A single puffin was once recorded carrying 62 fish at once.
They got their names because of their resemblance to a ball of puff.
Arctic foxes aren't always white.
They aren't always white.
The narwhal's tusk is actually a large tooth.
That horn is actually a large tooth.
The arctic wolf grows a second layer of fur for extra warmth in the wintertime.
These wolves know how to keep warm.
Moose can run at speeds of 35 miles per hour.
These moose are fast.
You can tell the age of a dall sheep by looking at its horns.
You'll know how old a dall sheep is by its horns.
Arctic terns migrate around 25,000 miles every year.
They are always on the move.
 In the summer months, arctic foxes have a brown or grey coat, and they grow the thick white coat in the winter. Arctic foxes are the only canid that can change coat color in the summertime, according to Canadian Geographic. The narwhal's tusk is actually a large tooth. That horn is actually a large tooth. Shutterstock
The unicorn of the sea, narwhals are known for the large tusk protruding from their heads. In fact, the narwhal's spiral tusk can grow up to 10 feet in length, according to the World Wildlife Fund. The narwhal's tusk is actually a large tooth, and it contains about 10 million nerve endings, as further explained by the World Wildlife Fund. This means the tusk likely has some sensory capabilities. Its name is derived from the Norse word "nar," which means "corpse-like," according to Whale Facts. With this in mind, the name narwhal means "corpse whale."

Things You Never Knew About 15 Animals Who Live in the Arctic

15 things you never knew about the animals that live in the Arctic's extreme conditions
15 things you never knew about the animals that live in the Arctic's extreme conditions
Lindsay Mack
Wolves and owls live in this tough terrain.
Polar bears can smell a seal three feet below the snow.
You can thank polar bears for the word "Arctic."
The Beluga whale's distinctive forehead is called a melon.
A beluga whale at Vancouver Aquarium.
The Canada lynx has a foot like a snowshoe.
These lynx have built-in snowshoes.
A single puffin was once recorded carrying 62 fish at once.
They got their names because of their resemblance to a ball of puff.
Arctic foxes aren't always white.
They aren't always white.
The narwhal's tusk is actually a large tooth.
That horn is actually a large tooth.
The arctic wolf grows a second layer of fur for extra warmth in the wintertime.
These wolves know how to keep warm.
Moose can run at speeds of 35 miles per hour.
These moose are fast.
You can tell the age of a dall sheep by looking at its horns.
You'll know how old a dall sheep is by its horns.
Arctic terns migrate around 25,000 miles every year.
They are always on the move.

In the summer months, arctic foxes have a brown or grey coat, and they grow the thick white coat in the winter. Arctic foxes are the only canid that can change coat color in the summertime, according to Canadian Geographic. The narwhal's tusk is actually a large tooth. That horn is actually a large tooth. Shutterstock
The unicorn of the sea, narwhals are known for the large tusk protruding from their heads. In fact, the narwhal's spiral tusk can grow up to 10 feet in length, according to the World Wildlife Fund. The narwhal's tusk is actually a large tooth, and it contains about 10 million nerve endings, as further explained by the World Wildlife Fund. This means the tusk likely has some sensory capabilities. Its name is derived from the Norse word "nar," which means "corpse-like," according to Whale Facts. With this in mind, the name narwhal means "corpse whale."

Whaletrips | Narwhals - The best time and place to watch narwhals
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Male narwhals have a two to three meter long tusk, which makes them unique and impossible to confuse.
Where and when NARWHALS
Chances to meet narwhals are best during summer along the coast of Arctic Bay, Pond Inlet or Resolute Bay in Arctic Canada and in Thule in the north of Greenland.
Best places NARWHALS
Canada's east coast is a true whale watching hotspot - with great coastal roads and national parks.
Best places NARWHALS
Those who want to see narwhals and belugas have to travel far north. To the Canadian Arctic, for instance.
Best places NARWHALS
Greenland is certainly one of the most impressive places to visit - also from a whale watching point of view.
Best places NARWHALS
In Alaska you can observe lots of whales during summer. First and foremost, however, Alaska is bear country.
Best places NARWHALS
Canada's east coast is a true whale watching hotspot - with great coastal roads and national parks.
Best places NARWHALS
Those who want to see narwhals and belugas have to travel far north. To the Canadian Arctic, for instance.
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 To this, their horn isn’t a horn but a tusk, breaking through the upper lip of almost all young male animals. It grows in a pointed spiral, weighs about 10 kilos and can get up to 3 meters long. Some animals have even two of those tusks; females usually don’t have one at all. The use of the tusk is not completely explored, yet. A long time ago, the tusk was said to have magic healing powers, especially in Asia, where tiger testicles and shark fins are also believed to hold special powers. This made narwhals a lucrative prey, when selling them to Asian markets. In Europe, the narwhal tusk was just sold as a unicorn horn, probably at an even higher price than the ones in Asia. All that made narwhals – and especially their tusk – a prime target for whalers of the 19th and 20th century. Only the males have a tusk, the females (normally) do not.

Whaletrips | Narwhals - The best time and place to watch narwhals

To this, their horn isn’t a horn but a tusk, breaking through the upper lip of almost all young male animals. It grows in a pointed spiral, weighs about 10 kilos and can get up to 3 meters long. Some animals have even two of those tusks; females usually don’t have one at all. The use of the tusk is not completely explored, yet. A long time ago, the tusk was said to have magic healing powers, especially in Asia, where tiger testicles and shark fins are also believed to hold special powers. This made narwhals a lucrative prey, when selling them to Asian markets. In Europe, the narwhal tusk was just sold as a unicorn horn, probably at an even higher price than the ones in Asia. All that made narwhals – and especially their tusk – a prime target for whalers of the 19th and 20th century. Only the males have a tusk, the females (normally) do not.

For a dentist, the narwhal's smile is a mystery of evolution | Smithsonian Insider For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution For a dentist, the narwhal's smile is a mystery of evolution | Smithsonian Insider
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
In Animals, Marine Science, Science & Nature / 18 April 2012
When a dentist says “open wide,” he or she knows pretty much what they’ll find inside a patient’s mouth. But when a dentist peers into the mouth of an Arctic narwhal, all bets are off. The mouth of a narwhal has no teeth. ( Photo by Martin Nweeia)
“Nothing makes sense,” explains Martin Nweeia, a practicing New England dentist and member of the Smithsonian’s Department of Vertebrate Zoology and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. For one, narwhals have no teeth. “ They eat large fish, yet swallow them whole. If you look in its mouth there’s nothing. There are absolutely no teeth.” Incredibly, the narwhal’s only visible tooth is outside of its mouth. Its tusk, in fact, is a giant canine tooth—that can grow as long as 9 feet—with a distinct left-hand spiral, covered in a tissue called cementum, normally only found around the base of a tooth lodged in bone.

For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution

For a dentist, the narwhal's smile is a mystery of evolution | Smithsonian Insider
For a dentist, the narwhal’s smile is a mystery of evolution
In Animals, Marine Science, Science & Nature / 18 April 2012
When a dentist says “open wide,” he or she knows pretty much what they’ll find inside a patient’s mouth. But when a dentist peers into the mouth of an Arctic narwhal, all bets are off. The mouth of a narwhal has no teeth. ( Photo by Martin Nweeia)
“Nothing makes sense,” explains Martin Nweeia, a practicing New England dentist and member of the Smithsonian’s Department of Vertebrate Zoology and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. For one, narwhals have no teeth. “ They eat large fish, yet swallow them whole. If you look in its mouth there’s nothing. There are absolutely no teeth.” Incredibly, the narwhal’s only visible tooth is outside of its mouth. Its tusk, in fact, is a giant canine tooth—that can grow as long as 9 feet—with a distinct left-hand spiral, covered in a tissue called cementum, normally only found around the base of a tooth lodged in bone.

We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex) - CNN We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex)
We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex) We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex) - CNN
We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex)
By Katie Hunt, CNN
Updated 7:04 AM ET, Thu March 19, 2020
The tusks of male narwhals can grow up to 8 feet long. (CNN) Narwhals are known as the "unicorns of the sea," but the reason for the whales' showy tusks has long mystified scientists. Little was known about the tusk's function because narwhals spend most of their lives hidden underneath the Arctic ice. Researchers have speculated that the tusk, which grows out of the animal's head in a spiral pattern, was used as an environment sensor or to hunt. Plastic bags may smell like food to hungry sea turtles, a new study says
Now a new study suggests the true evolutionary purpose of these horns -- which can be 8-feet-long -- has to do with sex: The tusks, the research found, are used by male narwhals to compete for and attract mates, a bit like a peacock's ostentatious feathers or an elk's elaborate antlers. The researchers examined the measurements of 245 male narwhals living in waters off Greenland over the course of 35 years. They found that the largest male narwhals had disproportionately long tusks.

We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex) - CNN

We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex)
We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex)

We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex) - CNN
We finally know why narwals have tusks (Hint: It has to do with sex)
By Katie Hunt, CNN
Updated 7:04 AM ET, Thu March 19, 2020
The tusks of male narwhals can grow up to 8 feet long. (CNN) Narwhals are known as the "unicorns of the sea," but the reason for the whales' showy tusks has long mystified scientists. Little was known about the tusk's function because narwhals spend most of their lives hidden underneath the Arctic ice. Researchers have speculated that the tusk, which grows out of the animal's head in a spiral pattern, was used as an environment sensor or to hunt. Plastic bags may smell like food to hungry sea turtles, a new study says
Now a new study suggests the true evolutionary purpose of these horns -- which can be 8-feet-long -- has to do with sex: The tusks, the research found, are used by male narwhals to compete for and attract mates, a bit like a peacock's ostentatious feathers or an elk's elaborate antlers. The researchers examined the measurements of 245 male narwhals living in waters off Greenland over the course of 35 years. They found that the largest male narwhals had disproportionately long tusks.

Narwhal Narwhal
Narwhal
Physical Description
Surface Characteristics
Color
Fins and Fluke
Length and Weight
Feeding
Mating and Breeding
Range Map
Natural History
Status
Bibliography
Acknowledgements
 The narwhal, beluga, and the bowhead are the only whales that spend their entire life in the Arctic. Physical Description
The narwhal is a chunky, stocky whale, with a small rounded head. Its most distinctive feature is its long tusk, which may grow to be nine feet long. The narwhal only has two teeth. In most females the teeth never erupt through the gum. In most adult males the right tooth remains embedded in the gum while the left tooth erupts through the front of the jaw and grows as an elongated tusk. This tusk always grows in a counter-clockwise spiral (as the animal sees it) and grows continuously, replacing wear. Occasionally the right tooth will also grow through the jaw; a few skulls with two tusks have been found. Surface Characteristics
Color
Narwhals are countershaded, which means they are dark on top and light on the bottom.

Narwhal

Narwhal
Narwhal
Physical Description
Surface Characteristics
Color
Fins and Fluke
Length and Weight
Feeding
Mating and Breeding
Range Map
Natural History
Status
Bibliography
Acknowledgements

The narwhal, beluga, and the bowhead are the only whales that spend their entire life in the Arctic. Physical Description
The narwhal is a chunky, stocky whale, with a small rounded head. Its most distinctive feature is its long tusk, which may grow to be nine feet long. The narwhal only has two teeth. In most females the teeth never erupt through the gum. In most adult males the right tooth remains embedded in the gum while the left tooth erupts through the front of the jaw and grows as an elongated tusk. This tusk always grows in a counter-clockwise spiral (as the animal sees it) and grows continuously, replacing wear. Occasionally the right tooth will also grow through the jaw; a few skulls with two tusks have been found. Surface Characteristics
Color
Narwhals are countershaded, which means they are dark on top and light on the bottom.

Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic - Owlcation Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
A pod of narwhals
An Unusual and Intriguing Whale
Range and Habitat
Physical Features of the Animal
Length and Weight
Colour and Pattern
Tusks
Dorsal Ridge and Blubber
Upper and lower surfaces of a male narwhal
Breathing Mechanism
Narwhals on the north coast of Baffin Island
Echolocation
Function of Narwhal Tusks
Narwhal Tusks as Sense Organs
Another Possible Function of the Tusk
The Life of a Narwhal
The Pod
Diet
Vocalizations
This male narwhal was captured, satellite-tagged and then released.
Diving Feats
Adaptations for Diving
Reproduction
Predators
Population Status and Threats
IUCN Status
Climate Change
Mercury Absorption
Ice Entrapment
A narwhal skull with two tusks
The Future for Narwhals
References
Questions & Answers
© 2012 Linda Crampton
Comments
 She loves to study nature and write about living things. pinterest-pin-it
A pod of narwhals
NOAA Photolib Library, via Wikimedia Commons, public domain license
An Unusual and Intriguing Whale
The narwhal is a fascinating whale that lives in the Arctic Ocean. It reminds many people of the mythical unicorn because one of the male’s teeth—and occasionally one of the female’s—is hugely elongated. A narwhal has two teeth. The roots of the teeth are buried in the upper jaw. The left tooth actually grows through the upper lip and extends out of the whale’s mouth to form a tusk, which may be as long as ten feet in the male. Unlike our teeth, a narwhal's tusk is somewhat flexible. The “nar” in the narwhal’s name comes from an Old Norse word that means “corpse”. The mottled black, grey, and white appearance of the adults reminded earlier people of a floating corpse in the sea. The scientific name of the narwhal is Monodon monoceros, which in Greek means “one tooth, one horn”.

She loves to study nature and write about living things. pinterest-pin-it
A pod of narwhals
NOAA Photolib Library, via Wikimedia Commons, public domain license
An Unusual and Intriguing Whale
The narwhal is a fascinating whale that lives in the Arctic Ocean. It reminds many people of the mythical unicorn because one of the male’s teeth—and occasionally one of the female’s—is hugely elongated. A narwhal has two teeth. The roots of the teeth are buried in the upper jaw. The left tooth actually grows through the upper lip and extends out of the whale’s mouth to form a tusk, which may be as long as ten feet in the male. Unlike our teeth, a narwhal's tusk is somewhat flexible. The “nar” in the narwhal’s name comes from an Old Norse word that means “corpse”. The mottled black, grey, and white appearance of the adults reminded earlier people of a floating corpse in the sea. The scientific name of the narwhal is Monodon monoceros, which in Greek means “one tooth, one horn”.

Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic - Owlcation Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
Narwhal Facts: The Fascinating Unicorn Whale of the Arctic
A pod of narwhals
An Unusual and Intriguing Whale
Range and Habitat
Physical Features of the Animal
Length and Weight
Colour and Pattern
Tusks
Dorsal Ridge and Blubber
Upper and lower surfaces of a male narwhal
Breathing Mechanism
Narwhals on the north coast of Baffin Island
Echolocation
Function of Narwhal Tusks
Narwhal Tusks as Sense Organs
Another Possible Function of the Tusk
The Life of a Narwhal
The Pod
Diet
Vocalizations
This male narwhal was captured, satellite-tagged and then released.
Diving Feats
Adaptations for Diving
Reproduction
Predators
Population Status and Threats
IUCN Status
Climate Change
Mercury Absorption
Ice Entrapment
A narwhal skull with two tusks
The Future for Narwhals
References
Questions & Answers
© 2012 Linda Crampton
Comments
 The narwhal's tusk is sensitive to temperature and pressure changes as well as chemicals. Narwhals come together to rub their tusks against those of other whales, a process known as "tusking". The whales are presumably detecting sensations from the contact. The rubbing may also remove algae and other deposits from the tusks. In earlier times, Viking traders sold narwhal tusk as unicorn horn. People buying this "unicorn horn" believed that it had magical properties and were prepared to pay large sums of money to obtain it. It was a prized possession and was thought to cure disease and neutralize poisons. Another Possible Function of the Tusk
In 2017, Canadian scientists obtained an amazing video of narwhals captured by a drone. The whales were travelling through a school of cod. As can be seen in the video below, the whale periodically jerks its tusk from side to side or up and down as it swims through the fish school.

The narwhal's tusk is sensitive to temperature and pressure changes as well as chemicals. Narwhals come together to rub their tusks against those of other whales, a process known as "tusking". The whales are presumably detecting sensations from the contact. The rubbing may also remove algae and other deposits from the tusks. In earlier times, Viking traders sold narwhal tusk as unicorn horn. People buying this "unicorn horn" believed that it had magical properties and were prepared to pay large sums of money to obtain it. It was a prized possession and was thought to cure disease and neutralize poisons. Another Possible Function of the Tusk
In 2017, Canadian scientists obtained an amazing video of narwhals captured by a drone. The whales were travelling through a school of cod. As can be seen in the video below, the whale periodically jerks its tusk from side to side or up and down as it swims through the fish school.

A Beautiful World™: Keep Narwhals Real | Minnesota Public Radio Keep Narwhals Real!
Keep Narwhals Real!
Narwhals Are Real
The King of Teeth
An Extraordinary World of Sound
A Loud Threat
Seismic Mapping
Crowdsourcing scientific studies?
Blasting Begins in June 2016
Biographies
 For years nobody knew what their tusks were for. Then a Harvard dental expert discovered they're way more complicated than anybody thought." That Harvard dental expert is Dr. Martin Nweeia. He's a country dentist in Sharon, Connecticut and a clinical professor at Harvard. He's a National Geographic Explorer and also one of the world's foremost authorities on the narwhal. " They have the king of teeth" he says. " The most amazing tooth in the animal kingdom, by far." The King of Teeth
For years, the narwhal tusk was thought to be an insensate horn, used for hunting or mating displays but nobody knew for sure, until Dr. Martin Nweeia figured it out. By gathering ancient Inuit knowledge and combining it with cutting-edge research, he discovered a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth. Specifically, the left tooth on an adult male, which grows up to nine feet long, over half the narwhal's body.

Keep Narwhals Real!
Keep Narwhals Real!
Narwhals Are Real
The King of Teeth
An Extraordinary World of Sound
A Loud Threat
Seismic Mapping
Crowdsourcing scientific studies?
Blasting Begins in June 2016
Biographies

For years nobody knew what their tusks were for. Then a Harvard dental expert discovered they're way more complicated than anybody thought." That Harvard dental expert is Dr. Martin Nweeia. He's a country dentist in Sharon, Connecticut and a clinical professor at Harvard. He's a National Geographic Explorer and also one of the world's foremost authorities on the narwhal. " They have the king of teeth" he says. " The most amazing tooth in the animal kingdom, by far." The King of Teeth
For years, the narwhal tusk was thought to be an insensate horn, used for hunting or mating displays but nobody knew for sure, until Dr. Martin Nweeia figured it out. By gathering ancient Inuit knowledge and combining it with cutting-edge research, he discovered a narwhal tusk is actually a tooth. Specifically, the left tooth on an adult male, which grows up to nine feet long, over half the narwhal's body.

NOAA Ocean Explorer: Tracking Narwhals in Greenland: Biology
The Biology and Ecology of Narwhals
Dr. Kristin Laidre, Polar Science Center
Applied Physics Lab, University of Washington
References:
 Narwhals have a black and white mottled skin pattern and are white underneath. This coloration contributed to their name. The old Norse prefix “ Nar ” means “corpse” and “ hval ” means “whale”. Thus “corpse whale” refers to how their skin color resembles that of a drowned sailor. The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but is different from all other toothed whales in that it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead the male develops a long straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes 2-3 m out of the upper left jaw. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. The myth of the unicorn comes from the narwhal tusk. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages. The tusks were sold without a good description of the animal from which they came.

NOAA Ocean Explorer: Tracking Narwhals in Greenland: Biology

The Biology and Ecology of Narwhals
Dr. Kristin Laidre, Polar Science Center
Applied Physics Lab, University of Washington
References:

Narwhals have a black and white mottled skin pattern and are white underneath. This coloration contributed to their name. The old Norse prefix “ Nar ” means “corpse” and “ hval ” means “whale”. Thus “corpse whale” refers to how their skin color resembles that of a drowned sailor. The narwhal is an odontocete or toothed whale, but is different from all other toothed whales in that it has no teeth in its mouth. Instead the male develops a long straight tooth (or tusk) that protrudes 2-3 m out of the upper left jaw. The tooth grows in a counterclockwise spiral. The myth of the unicorn comes from the narwhal tusk. Tusks exported from the Arctic, perhaps by the Vikings, reached Europe, the Mediterranean, and even the Far East as early as the Middle Ages. The tusks were sold without a good description of the animal from which they came.

Narwhal | Definition of Narwhal by Merriam-Webster narwhal
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Did You Know? The narwhal is a toothed whale found throughout arctic waters. Its Latin binomial, Monodon monoceros, is derived from the Greek words for "single-toothed" and "single-horned." Its English name (also sometimes spelled narwhale) comes from the Norwegian and Danish narvhal and the Swedish narval, words which are probably a modification of the Icelandic nárhvalur, which comes from the Old Norse nāhvalr. In Old Norse hvalr means "whale" and is akin to the Old English hwæl, the ancestor of the Modern English whale. The first element of nāhvalr is believed to be nār, the Old Norse word for "corpse," from the resemblance of the animal's color to that of a human corpse. Examples of narwhal in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web Since a narwhal’s tusk, which is actually a specialized tooth, grows in annual layers like the rings of a tree trunk, researchers can study the layers to look back in time, reports Matt Simon for Wired. — Alex Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, "Study of Narwhal Tusks Reveals a Swiftly Changing Arctic," 5 Apr. 2021 Or perhaps a narwhal uses its tusk to flush out prey on the ocean bottom. — Matt Simon, Wired, "Narwhal Tusks Tell a Troubling Tale," 1 Apr. 2021
Researchers have long debated what the 10-foot-long tooth that erupts from a narwhal ’s head is actually for. —

Narwhal | Definition of Narwhal by Merriam-Webster

narwhal
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First Known Use of narwhal
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The first known use of narwhal was in 1646
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Narwhal | Definition of Narwhal by Merriam-Webster narwhal
narwhal
Definition of narwhal
Illustration of narwhal
Did You Know?
Examples of narwhal in a Sentence
First Known Use of narwhal
History and Etymology for narwhal
Learn More about narwhal
Time Traveler for narwhal
The first known use of narwhal was in 1646
Listen to Our Podcast about narwhal
From the Editors at Merriam-Webster
The Good, The Bad, & The Semantically Imprecise - 12/6/19
Dictionary Entries near narwhal
narwhal
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More Definitions for narwhal
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 In Old Norse hvalr means "whale" and is akin to the Old English hwæl, the ancestor of the Modern English whale. The first element of nāhvalr is believed to be nār, the Old Norse word for "corpse," from the resemblance of the animal's color to that of a human corpse. Examples of narwhal in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web Since a narwhal’s tusk, which is actually a specialized tooth, grows in annual layers like the rings of a tree trunk, researchers can study the layers to look back in time, reports Matt Simon for Wired. — Alex Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, "Study of Narwhal Tusks Reveals a Swiftly Changing Arctic," 5 Apr. 2021 Or perhaps a narwhal uses its tusk to flush out prey on the ocean bottom. — Matt Simon, Wired, "Narwhal Tusks Tell a Troubling Tale," 1 Apr. 2021
Researchers have long debated what the 10-foot-long tooth that erupts from a narwhal ’s head is actually for. — Matt Simon, Wired, "Narwhal Tusks Tell a Troubling Tale," 1 Apr. 2021 Rattray’s new product, the Narwall, aims to provide more comfort and protection than typical face shields and masks (it was named after the narwhal and its whimsical, protruding tusk). — Hallie Miller, baltimoresun.com, "Baltimore-based entrepreneur designs full-face respirator mask designed for high-risk coronavirus settings," 17 Nov. 2020 The scientists are anxious to see whether the virus can live in the Arctic waters and will test their ideas by collecting tissue samples from the narwhal and placing them in liquid nitrogen to be analyzed. — Chris Ciaccia, Fox News, "Whales and other wildlife species could get COVID-19: ' Potential cascading impacts' around the world," 19 Oct. 2020 The one species, the narwhal, is an Arctic whale known for its huge nine-foot tusk. — Doyle Rice, USA TODAY, "Could COVID-19 spread to wildlife in the Arctic?,"

 What Is a Narwhal?
Wonder of the Day #489
What Is a Narwhal?
Have You Ever Wondered...
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 At one time, people believed they might be used to break ice or spear fish. Further study has shown, though, that they're most likely used in mating rituals to impress females or battle rival males. Narwhals feed on fish that swim deep under the Arctic ice. In fact, narwhals are known for making some of the deepest dives of any marine mammal. Narwhals have been known to dive to depths of over 2,500 feet over 15 times per day, with some dives reaching as deep as almost 5,000 feet! Today, they're still hunted legally by the Inuit peoples of Canada and Greenland. Known for their ability to use all parts of the narwhal, the Inuit peoples eat narwhal meat, harvest their tusks to use as tools, and even eat their skin, which is a good source of vitamin C.
The name narwhal comes from the Old Norse words nar ( corpse) and whal (whale). Narwhals were likely called “ corpse whales" because of their pale, mottled coloring that made them look like drowned sailors! In the Middle Ages, people believed narwhal tusks were unicorn horns with magical powers, such as the ability to render poison harmless. As a result, traders could sell narwhal tusks for many times their weight in gold.

What Is a Narwhal?
Wonder of the Day #489
What Is a Narwhal?
Have You Ever Wondered...
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At one time, people believed they might be used to break ice or spear fish. Further study has shown, though, that they're most likely used in mating rituals to impress females or battle rival males. Narwhals feed on fish that swim deep under the Arctic ice. In fact, narwhals are known for making some of the deepest dives of any marine mammal. Narwhals have been known to dive to depths of over 2,500 feet over 15 times per day, with some dives reaching as deep as almost 5,000 feet! Today, they're still hunted legally by the Inuit peoples of Canada and Greenland. Known for their ability to use all parts of the narwhal, the Inuit peoples eat narwhal meat, harvest their tusks to use as tools, and even eat their skin, which is a good source of vitamin C.
The name narwhal comes from the Old Norse words nar ( corpse) and whal (whale). Narwhals were likely called “ corpse whales" because of their pale, mottled coloring that made them look like drowned sailors! In the Middle Ages, people believed narwhal tusks were unicorn horns with magical powers, such as the ability to render poison harmless. As a result, traders could sell narwhal tusks for many times their weight in gold.

Narwhal (Monodon monoceros) | about animals Narwhal
Narwhal
Narwhal, one of nature’s most exotic wild species in the deep oceans of the Arctic belongs to the biggest group of mammals found on earth - whales.
As the name suggests, the name ‘narwhal’ originates from a Norse word ‘Nar’ that means corpse which refers to the animal’s gray, mottled pigmented body. The toothed Narwhals are native to the Russian subcontinent and are also found in the coastal waters of Greenland and Canada.
It is the only living species of the Monodontidae family, a cousin of the Beluga Whale with a mere population of around 75,000 according to a recent survey.
Physical Description
The size of an adult Narwhal varies from 4 – 4,8 m (13 – 15 ft) in terms of its range length. A particular characteristic observed in Narwhal whales is that the male is slightly larger than its female counterpart. This peculiarity is observed due to the presence of a long helical tusk, the elongated upper left canine that is found particularly in the male species. Owing to the life-long growth of the canine tooth, male narwhals generally sport an average length of 13 – 14 ft while a female narwhal is 11 – 12 ft in size. The average weight of an adult Narwhal is around 900 – 1600 kg (1985 – 3530 lbs). Narwhals are medium-sized whales that are found primarily in the Arctic waters with an average life expectancy of about 40 years.
Habitat
Narwhals are found in the northern hemisphere throughout the Polar region; a species that favors a specific habitat and occupies a restricted geographical range. They dominate deep waters and can rarely be seen far from loose packs of ice. This species is migratory in nature and follows a particular course depending upon the advance and retreat of the ice. During the summer season Narwhals tend to migrate towards the coasts in groups of 10 to 100 in search of fjords and deep inlets that are known for providing suitable grounds for breeding, birthing and calving.
In winters, after the formation of ice on the surface, Narwhals take shelter offshore in the deep waters of the sea, under thickly packed ice that surrounds geologically formed narrow fissures at the surface. Finally, when spring arrives, the fissures open up into channels leading the route of Narwhals back to the coastal bays. If the ice cover is low in deeper water bodies, the species generally moves towards a smaller water body that consists of steep sides and a deep expanse. Unlike the Beluga Whale that prefers shallow estuaries, Narwhals prefer a deep oceanic habitat.
Geographical Distribution
Narwhals can be particularly found in the eastern Arctic waters of Canada and Central Russia. There have been rare sightings in the waters surrounding Siberia, Alaska and West Canada. Though, Narwhals are predominantly found in the Arctic region all year round, they have also been seen swimming in pods near the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Rarely found far from loosely packed ice, large concentrations of Narwhals are often seen along the waters of the Davis Strait, around the Baffin Bay and off the East Coast of Greenland. The northern part of the Hudson Bay, Hudson Strait, inlets of Northern Canada and western Greenland also maintain a large population of Narwhals. During migratory season, the species can be found along the Russian coast of Svalbard, Franz Joseph and Severnaya.
Diet
Narwhals are touted as carnivores with a specific diet that typically includes the Greenland halibut and the Arctic polar cod. Scientists have inferred from their research that the stomach contents of an adult Narwhal include 51% of Arctic cod and 37% of Greenland halibut. Since Narwhals are capable of diving more than 500 m below sea level their most preferred catch is the Arctic cod.
Besides this Narwhals also have a peculiar craving for cuttlefish, shrimp and Armhook squid, all of which are found swimming within the deep ocean. Research also states that adult Narwhals particularly hunt down Wolfish and Capelin while young calves prefer feasting on Skate eggs.
Anatomy
Narwhals exhibit bilateral symmetry and sexual dimorphism where males have a larger body length as compared to females because of a distinguishing anatomical feature – the male tusk. This characteristic long tusk is basically an extended canine tooth that measures approximately to around 240 centimeters. The length of the tusk may vary depending upon the maturity of a male narwhal. On the contrary, the right canine tooth that measures around 30 centimeters remains embedded within the skull. Head of a Narwhal is relatively small with a blunt snout that appears short and rounded.
The pointed end of the tusk sports a polished appearance while the rest consists of a reddish or greenish coloring. Tusks in females are very rare and occur in one out of 500 females. However, a female can have either a single tusk or a double tusk. In the case of a double tusk, both tusks are twisted complexly against each other often resembling a spiral. Narwhals also exhibit a mottled pigmentation or white blotches on their pale bluish skin. They are also known to be endothermic creatures i.e. animals that are capable of generating internal heat to regulate their body temperature that is independent of the atmospheric temperature.
Narwhals do not possess a dorsal fin, however, there seems to be an irregular ridge of about 5 centimeters in height that extends along the posterior half of its back. While the pectoral fins are 30-40 centimeter in length, the tail flukes of a Narwhal are normally 100-120 centimeter long. As opposed to other cetaceans, Narwhals have convex posterior margins around their tail flukes rather than concave or straight. Female Narwhals have tail flukes with front edges that are swept back. When compared to its opposite sex, a male Narwhal sports tail flukes that appear slightly concave in shape.
Prey
Narwhals have improper dentition with only two teeth, both of which are present in the upper jaw. In females, the teeth aren’t functional since they’re embedded deep within the bone. In males, while the right tooth is found to be embedded, the left tooth erupts out through the upper lip that grows into an elongated tusk. Narwhals, therefore, hunt by getting close to their prey and sucking it with a strong force. This directly pushes the prey into its mouth, a characteristic that is quite similar to beaked whales who also hunt their prey using suction force.
Narwhals are close range hunters that travel in the Arctic waters. On reaching close enough to a shoal, they emit a jet stream (water) to dislodge and blindside their prey. Once their prey is caught in the torrent of the jet-stream, Narwhals use an immense amount of suction force to engulf their prey. Using a highly flexible neck and their elongated tusk they can easily scan the swimming grounds closely. The tusk is an innervated sensory organ that consists of a million micro-nerve endings that collects the water-borne particles and sends instant stimuli to the brain.
Forehead melons in a Narwhal are also sensory organs which enable it to sense the oscillation of waves within the ocean. This allows them to easily discern the presence of other aquatic life in the surrounding and thereby capture mobile prey like fish, crustaceans or mollusks.
Predator
Narwhals use their elongated tusk to ward off predators in the sea that can be a formidable weapon if several of their kind gather to aid a victimized Narwhal. They are normally slow moving creatures but can be remarkably quick due to the streamlined shape of the tusk. Polar bears prey upon young Narwhals by attempting to swipe at the breathing holes. Killer whales form groups in order to hunt a Narwhal down that has gone astray from its pack. Small or weak Narwhals are also preyed upon by Greenland sharks and Walruses. During an escape, Narwhals tend to submerge under the ice to get away from their predators. But the biggest threat to the species is Humans who have been known for killing the species illegally for its tusk, skin and meat.
Reproductive Cycle
Narwhals are seasonal breeders that mate during the summer months from March to May. Post-mating, calving occurs in the month of July and August the following year. The gestation period of a female Narwhal can be around 15.3 months (approx) where the fertilization is viviparous. The period of lactation remains unknown. Yet is said to be on par with a White whale which is approximately 20 months.
Narwhals copulate in shallow waters, in a vertical position from belly to belly which takes place after a male Narwhal finds its suitable mate. Infant Narwhals are usually implanted in the left uterine horn of a female Narwhal. As a result of this, only a single calf is born normally, although the birth of twin calves has also been recorded. After birth, newborn calves are nursed for about four months by the mother
Baby Narwhals are born with the tail first, 25 mm blubber and an even-colored skin tone. Each baby Narwhal is born brown with the absence of any spots or freckles on its body. It measures 1.5 – 1.7 m on an average and weights around 80 kg at birth. Males attain physical maturity after 11 years when they weight about 1600 kg with a body length of 4.7 meters. Female Narwhals mature physically at the age of five when they attain a size of 4 m in length and weight 900 kg.
Hybrids
Narwhals very rarely interbreed with any species of the Beluga whale to produce an offspring that features prominent characteristics of both a Narwhal and a Beluga whale. Marine biologists most of the times refer to them as an ‘anomalous species’ of a Narwhal-Beluga hybrid.
Behavior
Like many other whales, Narwhals love to travel in groups. A group of Narwhals mostly consists of 5-10 members. Narwhals seem to prefer cold atmospheric conditions and, therefore, inhabit ice cold regions of the Arctic Ocean as opposed to humid seas of the Antarctic. Apart from loose blocks of ice, Narwhals dwell in seas that are as deep as 400-800 meters at a stretch. They are pack oriented species that migrate towards shallow waters during the mating season.
They congregate in pods which contain a specific age group of Narwhals. A group with female Narwhals with their young is termed as the ‘nursery’. Besides nurseries, ‘bulls’, a group of juveniles or adult males and mixed groups are also commonly part of the herd. During the summer season, many migration groups come together and increase the population strength to around 500 to 1000 individuals. This helps to ward off predators like Killer whales and Greenland sharks that target the young.
A unique behavioral pattern observed by Narwhals is the rubbing of its tusk with one another within a group of bulls that is known as ‘tusking’, a characteristic that is deemed to prove social dominance. Apart from displaying supremacy, tusks also impart information regarding the living biota, environment and predatory warning. Narwhals mainly communicate using sounds to navigate, mate and hunt. Some of these sounds are ‘clicks’, ’whistles’ and ‘knocks’. These sounds are created through the air that exists between the chambers found near the blow hole.
‘Clicks’ are produced for locating prey and obstacles at a short distance by a method popularly used by all whales - echo reflection. These sounds are then focused into the animal’s melon that is regulated by musculature. It has been estimated that narwhals also produce ‘bangs’ in order to incapacitate the prey which makes hunting an easier affair. ‘Whistles’ are a sound rarely produced by Narwhals unless they’re vying for a mate. Other sounds produced by Narwhals include trumpeting and squeaking.
Threats
Study of Narwhal ecosystems concludes that the average life expectancy of a Narwhal is as long as 40 years in the wild. However if bred in captivity, they can survive longer. Some Narwhals, however, die at a younger stage for several reasons like suffocation, starvation or human instilled threats. A young calf can often suffocate when the sea ice freezes over. Narwhals are most vulnerable to climatic change and altering sea levels. A rise in global warming and pollution by humans has upset the density, pH and chemical components of seawater. Due to the consistent melting of icecaps in the Baffin Bay larger blocks of ice compress young Narwhals easily suffocating them each season. Seismic surveys related to oil exploration upset migratory pattern of the species by disrupting sound waves within the ocean.
The population of Narwhals has considerably reduced to 75,000 making it a nearly extinct species of the Arctic ecosystem. Human practices like illegal fishing and trawling in waters of Northern Canada and Greenland are major causes for this population decline. The demand of a Narwhal’s ivory tusk has greatly increased and its hunting is practiced legally in few countries. In 2002, a sudden rise in Narwhal catches took place in Siorapaluk that made the species vulnerable to illegal hunting. With the food chain disrupted, there is a limited catch for the species that causes them to migrate away from their native grounds in search of prey into human populated waters.
Conservation Status & Ecological Significance
According to the IUCN, Narwhals are listed as ‘Near Threatened’ with a population that is already on a decline. Altering sea coverage, human exploitation and loss of foraging grounds have visibly reduced their population to a mere 75,000 although some reports indicate the population being only 45,000. They have already been listed in Appendix II of the CITES and have been placed for consideration on the US Federal List. The International Whaling Commission is responsible for regulating whaling and checking the vast number of problems whale species are facing. Placement of satellite radio transmitters on Narwhals helps to track their progress in the sea and learn more regarding their life cycle.
In the aquatic ecosystem, Narwhals play a significant role in a practice known as commensalism. In this commensalism situation, Narwhals harbor many microbes and sea animals on their skin like whale lice, nematodes, trematodes, Acanthocephalans etc.
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 In males, while the right tooth is found to be embedded, the left tooth erupts out through the upper lip that grows into an elongated tusk. Narwhals, therefore, hunt by getting close to their prey and sucking it with a strong force. This directly pushes the prey into its mouth, a characteristic that is quite similar to beaked whales who also hunt their prey using suction force. Narwhals are close range hunters that travel in the Arctic waters. On reaching close enough to a shoal, they emit a jet stream (water) to dislodge and blindside their prey. Once their prey is caught in the torrent of the jet-stream, Narwhals use an immense amount of suction force to engulf their prey. Using a highly flexible neck and their elongated tusk they can easily scan the swimming grounds closely. The tusk is an innervated sensory organ that consists of a million micro-nerve endings that collects the water-borne particles and sends instant stimuli to the brain. Forehead melons in a Narwhal are also sensory organs which enable it to sense the oscillation of waves within the ocean. This allows them to easily discern the presence of other aquatic life in the surrounding and thereby capture mobile prey like fish, crustaceans or mollusks.

Narwhal (Monodon monoceros) | about animals

In males, while the right tooth is found to be embedded, the left tooth erupts out through the upper lip that grows into an elongated tusk. Narwhals, therefore, hunt by getting close to their prey and sucking it with a strong force. This directly pushes the prey into its mouth, a characteristic that is quite similar to beaked whales who also hunt their prey using suction force. Narwhals are close range hunters that travel in the Arctic waters. On reaching close enough to a shoal, they emit a jet stream (water) to dislodge and blindside their prey. Once their prey is caught in the torrent of the jet-stream, Narwhals use an immense amount of suction force to engulf their prey. Using a highly flexible neck and their elongated tusk they can easily scan the swimming grounds closely. The tusk is an innervated sensory organ that consists of a million micro-nerve endings that collects the water-borne particles and sends instant stimuli to the brain. Forehead melons in a Narwhal are also sensory organs which enable it to sense the oscillation of waves within the ocean. This allows them to easily discern the presence of other aquatic life in the surrounding and thereby capture mobile prey like fish, crustaceans or mollusks.

Narwhal | WWF Arctic Narwhal
Narwhal
FEATURED
Video reveals clue to the mystery of the narwhal tusk
Narwhal facts
Tracking narwhals from space
What is a narwhal's tusk for?
Sensing
Stunning
Threats to narwhals
Climate change
Oil and gas development
Ocean noise
How we work
A quieter ocean for Arctic whales
Reducing shipping impacts in Greenland
Tools for mariners
Understanding narwhals
News
WWF launches twitter campaign to #SaveTheIceEdge
Arctic lifeline could be cut by expanding off-shore oil drilling
Delivery of WWF Underwater Noise petition to Arctic Council
Stories
Underwater noise regulation: Time for Arctic coastal states to get on board
Making a difference for the ice edge
Life on the edge
Special IPCC report on the Oceans and Cryosphere
Publications
The Circle 04.19
Canada’s Arctic Marine Atlas
The Circle 03.18
Greenland Mariners' Guide
Marine mammals of Hudson Strait
Health effects in Arctic wildlife linked to chemical exposures
Recommended reading
Protect Arctic whales from underwater noise
Bowhead whale
 Read more
Narwhal facts
scientific name
Monodon monoceros
adult weight
males up to 1900 kg; females up to 1550 kg
adult length
males up to 5.4 m; females up to 4.9 m, plus tusk up to 3 m
population
> 120,000 mature individuals
status
Least Concern (IUCN)
© IUCN
Tracking narwhals from space
Satellite tags allow us to follow the movements of narwhal as they go about their annual feeding and reproductive routines, in order to better understand these unique creatures. Read more
What is a narwhal's tusk for? For centuries now, people have puzzled over the narwhal's unicorn-like tusk, and just what purpose it serves. Sensing
The work of Dr. Martin Nweeia and science and Inuit colleagues involved with the Narwhal Tusk Research project has unearthed evidence that the tusk has sensory capabilities. YouTube
WWFArcticProgramme
389 subscribers
Narwhal tusk research: science and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (traditional ecological knowledge)
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Narwhal | WWF Arctic

Narwhal
Narwhal
FEATURED
Video reveals clue to the mystery of the narwhal tusk
Narwhal facts
Tracking narwhals from space
What is a narwhal's tusk for?
Sensing
Stunning
Threats to narwhals
Climate change
Oil and gas development
Ocean noise
How we work
A quieter ocean for Arctic whales
Reducing shipping impacts in Greenland
Tools for mariners
Understanding narwhals
News
WWF launches twitter campaign to #SaveTheIceEdge
Arctic lifeline could be cut by expanding off-shore oil drilling
Delivery of WWF Underwater Noise petition to Arctic Council
Stories
Underwater noise regulation: Time for Arctic coastal states to get on board
Making a difference for the ice edge
Life on the edge
Special IPCC report on the Oceans and Cryosphere
Publications
The Circle 04.19
Canada’s Arctic Marine Atlas
The Circle 03.18
Greenland Mariners' Guide
Marine mammals of Hudson Strait
Health effects in Arctic wildlife linked to chemical exposures
Recommended reading
Protect Arctic whales from underwater noise
Bowhead whale

Read more
Narwhal facts
scientific name
Monodon monoceros
adult weight
males up to 1900 kg; females up to 1550 kg
adult length
males up to 5.4 m; females up to 4.9 m, plus tusk up to 3 m
population
> 120,000 mature individuals
status
Least Concern (IUCN)
© IUCN
Tracking narwhals from space
Satellite tags allow us to follow the movements of narwhal as they go about their annual feeding and reproductive routines, in order to better understand these unique creatures. Read more
What is a narwhal's tusk for? For centuries now, people have puzzled over the narwhal's unicorn-like tusk, and just what purpose it serves. Sensing
The work of Dr. Martin Nweeia and science and Inuit colleagues involved with the Narwhal Tusk Research project has unearthed evidence that the tusk has sensory capabilities. YouTube
WWFArcticProgramme
389 subscribers
Narwhal tusk research: science and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (traditional ecological knowledge)
Watch later
Share
Info
Shopping
Tap to unmute
If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. More videos
More videos
Share
Include playlist
An error occurred while retrieving sharing information. Please try again later.

Narwhal Narwhal
Narwhal
Physical Description
Surface Characteristics
Color
Fins and Fluke
Length and Weight
Feeding
Mating and Breeding
Range Map
Natural History
Status
Bibliography
Acknowledgements
 This evidence, combined with data indicating a rapid growth of the tusk at sexual maturity in males, suggests a possible breeding function. Natural History
The narwhal is a deep-water cetacean, and has been known to dive to 1,200 feet. It has up to 4" of blubber under its skin, which is needed for protection in the cold arctic waters. Becoming trapped in forming ice is not uncommon; in Greenland such an entrapment is called a "savssat". The most sever savssat occurred in the winter of 1914-1915, when over 1,000 narwhals died in an entrapment. Other sources of danger include attacks by orcas (killer whales) and, rarely, walruses, and polar bears. Status
Humans have valued the narwhal's tusk for many years. It is probably the origin of the myth of the unicorn, but the tusk and the narwhal were first associated in 1648 when Tulpius examined a stranded specimen in the British Isles. Through the Middle Ages the tusk was sold to cure epilepsy, strengthen the heart, induce perspiration, and buffer poison.

Narwhal

This evidence, combined with data indicating a rapid growth of the tusk at sexual maturity in males, suggests a possible breeding function. Natural History
The narwhal is a deep-water cetacean, and has been known to dive to 1,200 feet. It has up to 4" of blubber under its skin, which is needed for protection in the cold arctic waters. Becoming trapped in forming ice is not uncommon; in Greenland such an entrapment is called a "savssat". The most sever savssat occurred in the winter of 1914-1915, when over 1,000 narwhals died in an entrapment. Other sources of danger include attacks by orcas (killer whales) and, rarely, walruses, and polar bears. Status
Humans have valued the narwhal's tusk for many years. It is probably the origin of the myth of the unicorn, but the tusk and the narwhal were first associated in 1648 when Tulpius examined a stranded specimen in the British Isles. Through the Middle Ages the tusk was sold to cure epilepsy, strengthen the heart, induce perspiration, and buffer poison.

Narwhal Facts for Kids | KidzSearch.com Narwhal
Narwhal
Contents
Description
Habitat
References
Other websites
Pictures
 Monodon
Binomial name
Monodon monoceros
Linnaeus, 1758
The Narwhal ( Monodon monoceros) is a rarely seen Arctic whale. This social whale is known as the "unicorn of the sea" because the male has a very long tusk. Very little is known about this whale. Narwhal means "corpse whale" in Old Norse. Contents
[ hide ]
1 Description
2 Habitat
3 References
4 Other websites
4.1 Pictures
Description
Large male narwhals can grow to a length of 15 feet, and weigh up to two tons. A female can give birth once every three years, after a pregnancy of 15 months. At birth, the baby narwhal is about five feet long and weighs about 180 pounds. All narwhals have two teeth in their upper jaw and a tusk. After the first year of a male narwhal's life, its left tooth grows outward, spirally. There are some narwhals that are double-tusked, but they are not as common.

Narwhal Facts for Kids | KidzSearch.com

Monodon
Binomial name
Monodon monoceros
Linnaeus, 1758
The Narwhal ( Monodon monoceros) is a rarely seen Arctic whale. This social whale is known as the "unicorn of the sea" because the male has a very long tusk. Very little is known about this whale. Narwhal means "corpse whale" in Old Norse. Contents
[ hide ]
1 Description
2 Habitat
3 References
4 Other websites
4.1 Pictures
Description
Large male narwhals can grow to a length of 15 feet, and weigh up to two tons. A female can give birth once every three years, after a pregnancy of 15 months. At birth, the baby narwhal is about five feet long and weighs about 180 pounds. All narwhals have two teeth in their upper jaw and a tusk. After the first year of a male narwhal's life, its left tooth grows outward, spirally. There are some narwhals that are double-tusked, but they are not as common.