Narwhal’s Hunting Behaviour

March 4, 2025

Recent studies have revealed fascinating vital information about the behaviours of narwhals in the Arctic. These iconic marine mammals are known for their long, spiral tusks. Researchers have now observed how narwhals use these tusks for hunting Arctic char and interacting with their environment. The research marks the impact of climate change on narwhal behaviour and their adaptability to a warming Arctic.

About Narwhal

Scientific Classification:

Scientific Name: Monodon monoceros
Family: Monodontidae (same family as the beluga whale)

Distinctive Feature – Tusk:

The tusk is a long, helical tooth that grows from the upper left canine of males.
Only 15% of females develop a tusk.
The tusk grows throughout the narwhal’s life.
Rare cases of two-tusked narwhals exist.

Habitat and Distribution:

Found in the Arctic waters of Canada, Greenland, and Russia.
They stay in pods (groups) and prefer cold waters.

Diet and Behavior:

Carnivorous: Eats squid, cod, halibut, and small fish.
Lives in colonies and has social behaviors.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

Mentioned in old sailors’ stories as the “unicorn of the sea.”
Carl Linnaeus classified it in Systema Naturae (1758).
The name “narwhal” comes from the Old Norse word nár, meaning “corpse,” due to its grayish, mottled skin.

Evolutionary History:

Originally lived in tropical waters 11 million years ago.
Shifted to Arctic waters during the Pliocene era due to food chain changes.

Tusk Utilisation

A new research revealed that narwhals use their tusks to hunt Arctic char. They demonstrated remarkable dexterity and speed while manipulating their tusks to stun or kill fish. The tip of the tusk was particularly effective in investigating and influencing the behaviour of their prey.

Documented Behaviours

Researchers identified 17 distinct behaviours exhibited by narwhals. These included hunting techniques, social learning, and playful interactions. Notably, narwhals were observed engaging in ‘tusking’ behaviour, where they raise and cross their tusks, possibly for social interaction or competition assessment.

Interactions with Other Species

The study also documented interactions between narwhals and other species. This included kleptoparasitism, where narwhals compete with glaucous gulls for food. Such interactions highlight the complex dynamics within the Arctic ecosystem.

Impact of Climate Change

The research sheds light on how narwhals are adapting to changes in their environment. As ice patterns shift and prey availability fluctuates due to global warming, understanding these behaviours becomes crucial. The findings tell the importance of ongoing research in assessing the impacts of climate change on marine life.

Significance of the Study

This study contributes to the understanding of narwhal behaviour and ecology. It opens avenues for further research on how these marine mammals cope with environmental changes. The use of drones in wildlife research has proven invaluable, allowing for non-invasive observation.

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