But some scientists believe grays surface simply to look around, helping them navigate along the coast. Spyhopping has been witnessed many times off Dana Point, a promontory that may be a navigational landmark for the animals. Female grays can become aggressive if a boater gets too close to her calf. Otherwise, grays are very passive creatures. Naturalist Hugh Ryono of Fullerton says he's seen grays largely ignore the dolphins that sometimes ride the whale's wake.
Grays also are slow-pokes.
Their cruising speed is 2-5 knots. Killer whales can travel at least 30 knots.