Narwhals Caught on Drone Footage Using Their Tusks for Hunting, Exploration, and Play – Indian Defence Review
The newly captured drone footage reveals narwhals using their tusks in unexpected ways, from stunning prey to engaging in playful interactions. These observations provide fresh insights into the versatility of this unique Arctic species.Recent drone footage has provided scientists with unprecedented insights into the behaviour of narwhals, offering a rare glimpse into how these elusive Arctic whales use their long, spiralled tusks in the wild. While traditionally believed to serve only as a tool for mating displays or dominance, new observations suggest a far more complex range of functions.As reported by Discover Magazine, researchers have captured video evidence of narwhals using their tusks for hunting, exploring their environment, and even engaging in playful interactions. These findings challenge long-standing assumptions and indicate that narwhals may possess a greater degree of adaptability and social complexity than previously thought.Narwhals (Monodon monoceros), often referred to as the “unicorns of the sea,” are known for their unique tusks—elongated teeth that can grow up to 10 feet (3 metres) long. Traditionally, scientists believed these tusks were primarily used for mating displays or competition between males. However, new drone footage from Creswell Bay, Somerset Island, in the Canadian High Arctic has revealed a more complex set of behaviours.The footage, collected by researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, documents narwhals using their tusks in ways never before seen in the wild.The study, published in Frontiers in Marine Science, identifies at least 17 distinct behaviours, including the use of tusks to stun prey, interact with objects, and engage in social play.One of the most striking observations was narwhals using their tusks to hunt Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), a cold-water fish species. The footage shows narwhals manoeuvring with remarkable precision, using their tusks to tap, guide, and even strike fish to stun them before feeding.In one recorded sequence, an adult narwhal pursued a large Arctic char, using the tip of its tusk to closely track the fish’s movements. Two additional narwhals soon joined, forming a coordinated group. The lead narwhal tapped the fish 12 times, with six additional possible contacts, applying gentle downward pressure but never attempting to consume it.A second observation, filmed two days later, showed a stark contrast. Three younger male narwhals actively hunted smaller Arctic char, delivering rapid, forceful blows to their prey. One narwhal struck a fish five consecutive times with both the tip and shaft of its tusk, successfully stunning it.Perhaps the most surprising discovery was the first documented evidence of play behaviour in narwhals. In one instance, narwhals were observed interacting with a fish without attempting to eat it. The researchers identified this as “exploratory-object play”, a behaviour commonly associated with intelligence and social learning in animals.Play is rarely documented in adult wild animals, as it offers no immediate survival advantage. However, it is thought to help develop hunting skills, explore novel situations, and strengthen social bonds. This finding suggests that narwhals may be more socially complex than previously assumed, with younger individuals possibly learning behaviours from more experienced adults.The footage also captured unexpected interactions between narwhals and other Arctic species. One striking observation was kleptoparasitism, where glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) attempted to steal fish from hunting narwhals. The birds swooped down to snatch stunned fish before the narwhals could consume them.Additionally, the study recorded competitive interactions among narwhals. Some individuals were seen blocking access to prey, while others engaged in what appeared to be subtle communicative behaviours, possibly cooperative or affiliative rather than aggressive.Beyond revealing new behaviours, the study highlights the potential impact of climate change on narwhals. As Arctic waters warm and new species migrate northward, narwhals may need to adapt their hunting strategies and social interactions.Lead researcher Greg O’Corry-Crowe emphasised the importance of non-invasive research methods:“Drones provide a unique, real-time view of narwhal behaviour, helping scientists gather crucial data on how they respond to changes in ice patterns, prey availability, and environmental shifts.”The study also suggests that narwhal tusks are far more versatile than previously thought. While their evolution may have been driven by sexual selection, their function appears to have expanded—similar to the tusks of elephants and walruses—to include foraging, social interactions, and even playful exploration.Comment Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
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