Scott et al. (Western Birds 5:13-20, 1974) reported the range expansion and diurnal activity of Rhinoceros Auklets (Cerorhinca monocerata) on the coasts of Oregon and California in recent years. Diurnal activity has been noted on the Farallon Islands, California, and at Sea Lion Caves, Oregon. In this latter location, they have been seen carrying fish into the cave indicating that they were feeding young during daytime.
My ornithology students from Walla Walla College Marine Biological Station, Anacortes, Washington, and I observed a Rhinoceros Auklet associating on rocks, and flying circles, with Tufted Puffins (Lunda cirrhata). On 23 June 1977, a single auklet came to Williamson Rocks, Rosario Strait, Washington, while our boat was anchored close to shore. It entered a burrow and remained there for at least 10 minutes. The auklet then emerged to rest on the rocks for another 30 minutes or more until a Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus glaucescens) landed nearby.
Visits to the location were made at least three times a week after the first sighting. The single auklet was always present and usually came to land while I observed other alcids.