Here are some magical moments with gray whales I experienced last spring in the lagoons of Baja California, Mexico. The lagoons there are the only place in the world where gray whales behave this way. They approach humans on their own accord, often just to be scratched and rubbed. Their behavior is so playful they come right up to you to make eye contact and roll their bellies up for a scratch. I'll never forget eye contact with these peaceful giants. It was an amazing experience. These protected lagoons are where they arrive to give birth and care for their young calves before a 12k mile journey North. - Just last week, a report came out detailing an alarming 38% drop in gray whale populations. Since counts began, last year was the lowest amount of calves born since before they were put on the protected list. Truly alarming news.