Why Is a Baby Narwhal Called a Calf?

Q: What is a baby narwhal called?

A baby narwhal is called a calf. Narwhal calves are born with a flat forehead

Q: What other animals are called calfs?

Yes! 15 animals share the baby name "Calf": bison, camel, cow, dolphin, elephant, elk, giraffe, hippopotamus, manatee, moose, narwhal, reindeer, rhinoceros, walrus, whale.

The story behind the baby animal name “Calf” — its origin, meaning, and history.

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Baby Animal Names Editorial Team

·Updated 2025

Quick Answer

A baby narwhal is called a calf. The name "Calf" has been used for baby narwhals for centuries.

The Origin of “Calf”

The baby animal name “Calf” for narwhals has deep roots in the English language. Like many baby animal names, it evolved from practical usage — people who worked closely with animals needed specific terms to describe their young.

Baby animal names often come from Old English, Latin, French, or indigenous languages. They reflect how humans have interacted with and categorized animals throughout history.

Other Animals Called “Calf”

“Calf” isn't unique to narwhals.15 animals share this baby name:

Wild Animals

Farm Animals

Farm Animals

Sea Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Sea Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Sea Animals

Sea Animals

See all animals called “Calf” →

Fun Facts About Baby Narwhals

•Narwhal calves are born with a flat forehead
•Their iconic tusk (actually a tooth) doesn't grow until later
•Calves stay close to their mother for 1-2 years
•They are born in summer under the Arctic ice

Did You Know?

Baby narwhals are born without their famous "unicorn horn" — the tusk is actually a left tooth that grows through the lip starting at age 1!

How to Pronounce “Calf”