Remsen, J.V. 1974 Marbled Murrelet Brachyramphus marmoratum Jan.26 Monterey Bay offshore boat trip, Monterey Co, Calif - 2 swimming together fairly close to shore (~2 miles) off Moss Landing . They were at first thought to be Ancients because of a very unusual plumage variation - they had striking, uniform gray backs, not black as they should have had. They were definitely not Ancients - white scapulars, long thin bill, white throat. Feb.2 Monterey Bay offshore boat trip : 5 winter plumage within 5 miles of Moss Landing May20 Pigeon Pt., San Mateo Co, Calif ; 17, mostly pairs In flight this species (BP) can be told from Cassin's Auklet by its longer, more arched-backwards wings - suit-like , compared to stumpy Cassin's wings. Also, longer bill and neck gives it a more pointed appearance,