Very small diving seabird sometimes seen from shore, at time in small groups. Plumage is blackish above and whitish below; narrow whitish “braces” sometimes visible. Swims low in the water and usually dives when approached or runs along the water to fly away from boats. Flight is low and fast over the sea, with rapid “whirring” wingbeats; does not glide. Only diving-petrel in Humboldt Current.