With their iconic spiral horn, which is actually a modified tooth, narwhals (Monodon monoceros) are so strange that they even inspired the myth of the unicorn.
Most people will never see one of these elusive mammals in their lifetime but cinematographer Martin Gregus is one of the lucky ones who has.
"They are perhaps the most magical animals I've ever seen and ones that have lived in my dreams and imagination for over 15 years,” says Gregus, who shared spectacular footage of one of his encounters on Instagram.
Gregus had always dreamed of seeing these mysterious creatures in real life. He finally had the opportunity for the first time in 2023 and, since then, has spent time with them every summer.
In his video, a pod of narwhals can be seen from above as they swim and jostle each other with their dappled grey bodies. Their impressive tusks are visible just below the water.
A narwhal’s tusk alone can grow to around three metres long – that’s longer than a three seater sofa – and may be used in foraging, exploration and play.
Image and video credit: Martin Gregus @mywildlive and www.matkopictures.com
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