Narwhal Definition | Characteristics & Facts

Unique Tusk

One of the most distinctive features of the narwhal is its long, spiral tusk, which is actually a specialized tooth. The tusk can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length and is primarily found in males, though some females may also have smaller tusks. The exact purpose of the tusk is not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in mating displays, sensory perception, and perhaps as a tool for breaking ice.

Arctic Habitat

Narwhals are found in the Arctic waters of the Northern Hemisphere, primarily in Canada, Greenland, and Russia. They are well-adapted to life in cold, icy environments and are known for their ability to navigate through narrow channels in the ice.

Social Structure

Narwhals are social animals that live in groups known as pods. They exhibit a complex social structure with distinct roles and behaviors within the group.

Echolocation

Like other toothed whales, narwhals use echolocation to navigate and find food in their murky underwater environment. They produce clicking sounds and interpret the echoes that bounce back to locate prey and communicate with each other.

Deep Divers

Narwhals are skilled divers and can descend to considerable depths in search of food. They can dive as deep as 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) and stay submerged for up to 25 minutes.

Feeding Behavior

Narwhals are carnivores and primarily feed on fish, squid, and other marine organisms found in the Arctic waters. Their diet varies seasonally based on the availability of prey.

Migratory Patterns

Narwhals exhibit migratory behavior, moving between different regions of the Arctic throughout the year. They travel long distances to access specific feeding and breeding areas.

Read our Animals Encyclopedia with Complete Facts

1. Tusk: The most distinguishing feature of the narwhal is its long, spiral-shaped tusk, which is actually a specialized tooth that can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in length. This tusk is primarily found in males, though some females may also develop smaller tusks.
2. Body Shape: Narwhals have a robust and streamlined body shape, similar to other toothed whales. They have a dark bluish-grey to mottled grey body, which helps them blend in with their icy surroundings.
3. Size: Lengths up to 18 feet and weigh  1,500 to 3,500 pounds.
4. Fins: Narwhals have a dorsal fin, which is located on their back, as well as pectoral fins on the sides of their body. The dorsal fin is relatively small compared to some other whale species.
5. Diet: Narwhals are carnivorous and primarily feed on fish, squid, and shrimp.
6. Blowhole: Narwhals have a single blowhole located on top of their head, which they use to breathe when they come to the surface of the water.
7. Social Structure: Narwhals are highly social animals and are known to travel in groups called pods. These pods can consist of a few individuals up to hundreds of individuals.
8. Underwater Abilities: Narwhals are skilled divers and can dive to depths of over 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) to search for food.

Continue To Explore All Animals That Start With N

Kingdom: Animalia (Animals)

Phylum: Chordata (Chordates)

Class: Mammalia (Mammals)

Order: Cetacea (Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises)

Suborder: Odontoceti (Toothed Whales)

Family: Monodontidae (Narwhals and Belugas)

Genus: Monodon

Species: Monodon monoceros

• Canada
• Greenland
• Norway
• Russia

View All A-Z Animals List

Narwhal FAQs

• Fish
• squid
• shrimp

What is the purpose of the narwhal’s tusk?

The narwhal’s tusk, which is actually a specialized tooth, serves various purposes. It is used for navigation through Arctic ice, breaking ice to create breathing holes, and as a tool for hunting and catching prey.

Do both male and female narwhals have tusks?

No, generally only male narwhals have tusks. Female narwhals rarely develop tusks, and when they do, they are typically smaller than those of males. The tusk is believed to play a role in mating displays and competition among males.