The narwhal, often called the “unicorn of the sea,” has long fascinated scientists with its spiral tusk. Traditionally believed to play a role in mating displays or competition, new research reveals that the tusk, actually an elongated tooth, serves a far more dynamic purpose.

A study conducted by researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU's) Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and Canada's Department of Fisheries and Oceans (in partnership with the Inuit communities in Nunavut, Canada) has provided groundbreaking insights into narwhal behaviour. 

Using drone technology, their study captured the footage of narwhals using their tusks to engage with their prey (Arctic char) in Creswell Bay on Somerset Island in Nunavut in the Canadian High Arctic.

Filming narwhals with a drone

The researchers also captured footage which revealed unexpected behaviors, like what appeared to be exploratory-object play—suggesting that narwhals may engage in playful activities to learn or hone their skills, much like dolphins and whales. 

During hunts, the narwhals displayed remarkable dexterity and precision, making swift course corrections as necessary during the pursuit. Their tusks persistently tracked the prey without fail, and they would use it to hit the fish when they were within reach.

In addition, the drone recorded instances in which the narwhals and glaucous gulls competed for the same prey, highlighting the complex relationships between Arctic species.

"Tusking"

Further insights into the narwhal’s social lives were uncovered. Narwhals are known for “tusking,” in which individuals cross their tusks in what appears to be a ritualistic display. The study suggests that tusking could serve multiple purposes, from assessing opponents to signalling potential mates. 

Additionally, observations indicate that narwhals may learn from each other, a trait that could help them adapt to the rapidly changing Arctic environment.

As climate change alters ice patterns and prey availability, understanding how narwhals interact with their surroundings is critical. “To understand how narwhals are being affected by and adapting to the changing Arctic, field studies using innovative, non-invasive tools like drones are essential to observe them in their natural environment without disturbing them,” said senior author Greg O’Corry-Crowe, PhD, a research professor at FAU Harbor Branch.

“Drones provide a unique, real-time view of their behaviour, helping scientists gather crucial data on how narwhals are responding to shifts in ice patterns, prey availability and other environmental changes. Such studies are key to understanding the impact of global warming on these elusive animals.”

The findings of the study were published in Frontiers in Marine Science.