Narwhals are among the most specialized Arctic mammals and among the most vulnerable to climate change. Their welfare depends on predictable sea ice conditions.
Narwhal welfare is profoundly linked to the stability of Arctic sea ice. Entrapment in rapidly forming ice — sassats — causes mass drowning events where thousands of animals suffocate as breathing holes close. Climate-driven unpredictability in ice formation and breakup increases entrapment risk. Narwhals are also extraordinarily stress-sensitive, with documented cardiovascular shock responses to disturbance. Ship traffic through narwhal habitat causes significant welfare harm through noise, stress responses, and disruption of foraging. Protecting narwhal welfare requires both Arctic habitat conservation and aggressive climate action.