Unicorns of the Sea!

Unicorns of the Sea!

We couldn’t resist to make one last stop in our trip to the Arctic Circle to see some narwhals! They are one of our favorites- we even have two narwhals living at HQs! We had a great time on the SS Ellie and Edmond boat watching these unicorns of the sea!

Date: 12/20

Location: arctic circle

• The Narwhal is often called the unicorn of the sea.
• They have the most northerly range of any mammal on the planet.
• Narwhals have a modified upper incisor tooth that grows up to 9ft long.
• This tooth looks like a horn. It grows through the upper mouth and is seen mostly in male Narwhals, but females can have small tusks.  Scientists aren’t completely sure what the purpose of the tusk is, but think it might be for attracting females.
• The long tusk is made of ivory, just like an elephants tusks!

• Narwhals have a thick layer of blubber, like other arctic animals that help keep them warm in the cold water.
• Narwhals swim in groups called pods. Pods can include as many as 1000 individuals.
• Narwhals are very communicative and use a wide range sounds, including clicks and whistles.
• They suck food through their powerful lips and tongue.

Narwhals are amazing animals! They survive in very cold waters and grow this awesome long tusk that makes them look unique!  If you could pick a crazy adaptation like tusks what would it be?