The narwhal is vulnerable to climate change and industrial pollution. Narwhals are also hunted for meat and ivory in Greenland and Canada.
The European Union has established an import ban on narwhal ivory, but it is loosely enforced. Narwhal hunting is legal in most of the animal's habitat range.
There have been a few attempts to breed narwhals in captivity, but they rarely survive more than a few weeks or months after being captured. They are temperamental breeders and poor candidates for captive breeding.
Currently, IUCN estimates that the global narwhal population exceeds 80,000, although these numbers appear to be declining.
Moderate hunting is not a serious threat to the narwhal, and it is an important part of Greenland's traditional, sustainable economy. However, climate change, industrial activity and overfishing pose treats to the narwhal's long-term survival.