Unusual bird sighting. Is it an alcid?

Observation by Jaclyn Christensen:

This penguin type beak on this bird leads us to believe this is an auk type bird. The back feathers look brown possibly faded from being in the elements for a long while. This bird was a noticed on the beach landing area of the community but not touched. There is decay and insects on the animal. Unusual for this area.

Comment by Kathy Kuletz:

Jayclyn is right, its an alcid. I think this is a juvenile (last year's) horned puffin. The large beak (but not as big as a winter adult), and faint white face/eye patch indicates a juvenile. The all white belly and dark back is typical of horned puffins of all ages. As noted - the feather colors have faded - this bird has been dead awhile. Mortality is high the first year at sea. While it might be unusual to see one on the beach in this area, its not unusual to find a horned puffin in the region - though they would normally be further offshore when not breeding.