Two tusks better than one

A Kimmirut hunter made a rare find while hunting in the waters off Qikitarjuaq in October.

Allen Kooneeliusie, a full time hunter, shot and harpooned a two-tusked male narwhal, which could be worth several thousand dollars.

After consulting with hunters and elders, wildlife officer Dustin Fredlund said the catch is likely the first of its kind found in south Baffin waters.

“Only three per cent of male narwhals have two tusks, and in those cases the tusks are usually smaller and two different sizes,” Fredlund said. “I’m not sure if it’s a record but it is extremely rare.”

Perhaps the only thing more rare would be a two-tusked female narwhal. Few female narwhals — only about three per cent — are born with even one tusk.

Fredlund estimates the rarity of the ivory will increase the tusk’s value. “Pairs like that have sold for up to $60,000 and they weren’t as good these. I can’t give you an exact figure, it will depend the seller and the buyer,” Fredlund said.

“He would like to sell them, at least that what he’s expressed to me.”

Kooneeliusie, a former Qikiqtarjuaq resident, harvested the marine mammal at the request of Kimmirut residents. Inter-community sharing of quotas is permitted with the approval of the local Hunters and Trappers Association.

Kooneeliusie was en route to Iqaluit from Kimmirut at press time and could not be reached for comment.