A small black-and-white shearwater with relatively broad wings and a long rounded tail. Underwing very white, contrasting with darker smudgy marks along the leading edge of the wing. Two dark smudge marks are often visible at the collar, extending down from the hood. Somewhat similar to Bryan’s Shearwater, but much larger, and white does not extend above the eye, creating a darker-faced appearance. Also lacks the distinctive rapidly fluttering flight of Bryan’s.