Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the narwhal in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the narwhal in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the narwhal in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the narwhal’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Narwhal
Scientific name: Monodon monoceros

IUCN Status: Near Threatened
Family: MONODONTIDAE
Group: Marine mammals
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 100 m
Reproductive period: April to June
Duration: 14 à 15 mois
Births: April to June
Habitat:
Arctic seas, coastal areas, and estuaries of Canada, Greenland, and Russia
Activity period :
Active intermittently throughout day and night.
Identification and description:
The Narwhal is a unique cetacean, often referred to as the "unicorn of the seas" due to the long twisted tusk it possesses, typically in males. It measures between 4 and 5 meters in length and can weigh up to 1,600 kg. The narwhal's tusk can reach up to 3 meters in length and is actually a tooth that grows asymmetrically, often spiraling. Its body is gray to white with black and white patches that vary from one individual to another. The Narwhal primarily inhabits the cold waters of the Arctic, where it feeds on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. It is an excellent diver, capable of descending to great depths in search of food. While its population remains relatively stable, it is threatened by climate change, water pollution, and human disturbances. Due to its beauty and rarity, it is also highly sought after for illegal horn trade.
Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph the narwhal, especially when it is moving in the water or swimming at the surface. The soft light of the morning or evening is ideal for capturing these marine animals in their natural habitat. Be discreet and respect their space, especially when they are migrating or moving in groups.
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