Why Narwhals are called the "unicorns of the sea"?
Discover the enchanting narwhal, an Arctic whale whose spiraled tusk inspires myths, legends and the title “unicorn of the sea.”
September 23, 2025 / 16:51 IST
1. Unicorn of the Sea: Narwhals are Arctic whales famous for their long, spiral tusks, resembling mythical unicorns. (Image: Canva)
2. Mysterious Tusk: Only males usually grow tusks, which are elongated canine teeth, sometimes reaching over 2.5 meters. (Image: Canva)
3. Tusk Function: Narwhal tusks may be used in mating rituals, dominance displays and possibly sensing water conditions. (Image: Canva)
4. Spiraled Wonder: The spiral shape of the tusk is unique, twisting left or right like a mythical horn. (Image: Canva)
5. Deep Divers: Narwhals can dive over 1,500 meters to hunt fish, squid, and shrimp in icy waters. (Image: Canva)
6. Cultural Significance: Indigenous Arctic communities have revered narwhals for centuries, incorporating tusks into art and folklore. (Image: Canva)
7. Conservation Efforts: Protecting Arctic habitats and regulating hunting helps preserve these fascinating “unicorns of the sea.” (Image: Canva)
8. Threats: Climate change, hunting and habitat disruption threaten narwhals, impacting populations and migration patterns. (Image: Canva)
9. Diet: Narwhals feed mainly on fish, squid and shrimp, depending on seasonal availability in Arctic seas. (Image: Canva)
10. Echolocation Experts: They use echolocation clicks to navigate and locate prey beneath thick Arctic ice. (Image: Canva)
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