Large but light-bodied shearwater with rather broad wings and a long, wedge-shaped tail often held closed in a point. Fairly common in warm tropical waters and at times visible from shore. Occurs locally in flocks of hundreds; elsewhere occurs in smaller numbers. Usually seen with feeding flocks of other seabirds. Typical flight is unhurried with easy buoyant glides and stiff wingbeats. Plumage variable: most birds are gray-brown above and whitish below; others are dark brown overall. Note pale scaly edgings to back feathers and slender grayish bill.