New Drone Observations Shed Light on Narwhal Tusk Behavior

Researchers document narwhals using their tusks for hunting, play, and social interactions in Arctic waters.

A US-Canadian research team used drones to observe narwhals in their natural Arctic habitat, revealing new insights into their tusk usage.
Narwhals were seen using their tusks to tap, stun, and manipulate fish, showcasing remarkable precision and speed.
The tusks also appear to play a role in social interactions, including competitive displays between males and potential mating behaviors.
Narwhal tusks, which are elongated upper canine teeth, can detect chemical changes in the water, adding to their functional versatility.
Further studies are needed to understand the full range of narwhal behavior and how they are adapting to changing Arctic conditions.