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Narwhal Facts
NARWHAL FACTS
Scientific name: Monodon monoceros
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
Lifespan: up to 50 years
Mass: 800-1600 kg
Length: 3.9-5.5 m
Narwhals are affectionately known as the “Unicorns of the Sea”. Narwhals live the Arctic waters of Greenland, Russia and Canada. They winter up to 5 months a year under the sea ice. Cracks in the ice allow them to breathe. Along with the Beluga Whale, Narwhals make up the other half of the Monodontidae family.Narwal Facts
More Narwal Facts:
Narwhals are characterised by the long, spiral tusk which is caused by an elongated canine tooth. This tusk has sensory capabilities, contains up to 10,000 nerve endings and can also grow up to 10 feet long!
Narwhal Facts & Tidbits
- Not all narwhals have a tusk; however, some males can grow up to two!
- Narwhals feed on squid, arctic and polar cod, shrimp, as well as halibut.
- A narwhal can dive up to 1.5 miles deep in the ocean.
- Narwhals don’t have a dorsal fin. Their neck vertebrae are joined like other mammals and are not fused as in dolphins and most whales.
Distribution
Narwhals can be found in Northern Canada, Greenland and Russia. These whales keep to Arctic and Sub-Arctic waters and around sea ice.
Status of the Beluga Whale
Narwhals are considered Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. Read more about whale threats.
