These are narwhals…
Narwhals are the unicorns of the sea which is why we love ’em! You know, because unicorns are REAL and also have a horn but as opposed to Narwhals they live on land. Facts. These guys are like the aquatic version of “Is it a bird? Is it a plane?” Except in this case, it’s more like, “Is it a whale? Is it a unicorn with severe dental issues?
The narwhal tusk—most commonly found on males—is actually an enlarged protruding tooth with sensory capability and up to 10 million nerve endings inside. Hope they never need a root canal. Ouch! That spiral tusk can reach lengths of up to 10 feet (3 meters). The exact purpose of the narwhal’s tusk is not fully understood. It was once believed to be a weapon or tool for breaking through ice or catching prey. Picture a group of whales just casually swimming around with one dude who looks like he’s ready to joust. You know, just narwhal things. However, recent research suggests that it may serve multiple functions, including communication, navigation, and mate attraction. Hubba, hubba I’ve got the blubber to keep you warm!
Narwhals lives year-round in the Arctic waters around Greenland, Canada, and Russia and is the member of the Monodontidae family along with the beluga whale.
Unfortunately, climate change and pollution are threatening their existence. Let’s all do our part to limit our emissions (Greenhouse not…never mind.) and reduce single use plastics!
