Narwhal for Kids Ages 6-8

Narwhal

A narwhal, known as the 'unicorn of the sea,' tells the story of its life in the Arctic. It explains that its famous tusk is actually a sensitive tooth used for exploring. The narwhal describes swimming in a pod, diving deep for food using echolocation, and its historical importance to humans like the Vikings. The story ends with a message about the narwhal's role in its ecosystem and the importance of protecting its icy home.

First scientifically described 1758

Tusk trade by Vikings c. 1000

Tusk sensory function confirmed 2014

The Unicorn of the Sea

Hello there. My name is Narwhal, and some people call me the 'unicorn of the sea.' Can you guess why? It’s because of my amazing tusk. It’s long and spiraled, just like a unicorn’s horn, but it’s not a horn at all. It’s actually a very long tooth that grows right out of my upper lip. This tusk is super special because it’s full of nerves, which makes it very sensitive. It helps me learn all about my home in the chilly Arctic waters. I swim in the icy seas around places called Greenland and Canada. The water is cold and sparkly, filled with giant floating pieces of ice. My tusk is like a magic wand that helps me feel changes in the water and explore everything around me. It helps me understand my beautiful, frosty world.

I am a deep-sea explorer, and I love an adventure. I never swim alone because I live with my family in a group called a pod. We are very chatty. We don't use words like you do, but we 'talk' to each other all day long using clicks, whistles, and squeaks. It's how we say hello and tell each other where the best food is. Speaking of food, I am a champion diver. I can hold my breath and dive almost a mile deep into the ocean where it is very dark. Down there, I hunt for my favorite snacks, like Greenland halibut and tasty Arctic cod. It is so dark in the deep water that I can't use my eyes to see. Instead, I use a special skill called echolocation. I make clicking sounds that travel through the water and bounce off things, like a fish or a rock. My brain turns these returning sounds into a picture, so I can 'see' with sound.

My special tusk has fascinated people for a very, very long time. Many years ago, Vikings began trading narwhal tusks in Europe after settling in Greenland in the late 900s. I am more than just my tusk, though. I have a very important role in the Arctic world. As a hunter, I help keep the ocean balanced and healthy. The Arctic is a beautiful, icy world that needs our help to stay safe for all the animals who live here. By learning about me, you help protect my amazing home. This means that all the narwhals of the future will have a safe place to swim, dive deep, and talk with their families for many, many years to come.