Mike Gil, Ph.D.An unforgettable sendoff
After researching the coral reefs surrounding the island of Mo’orea, French Polynesia since 2009, and in my final hours on the island, I was fortunate enough to see a side of nature I had never seen before. This encounter made me feel a connection with these animals and, more importantly, reassurance that we are all connected.
Video: Mike Gil
Photo: Heather Hillard
Music: Starálfur by Sigur Rós
Spoiler Alert: The video features a pair of humpback whales that appear to be courting in the company of a group of spinner dolphins. Humpbacks migrate to Mo’orea each Austral Winter, usually arriving around July, but this is the first time I had ever seen one (or two!) up close. What a sight.
Mike Gil, Ph.D. 
Mike, absolutely awesome. You and Heather are so lucky. Can only hope I get the chance for such an encounter. By the way, was great finally meeting Heather, even if just through Skype