Frequents a wide diversity of open habitats; usually, but not always, near water.

Reddish-orange rump and the presence of two breast bands separate the species from all other “plovers”. Call, ‘kill-deer’ is also easily recognized.

Nests on the ground, often amidst small- or medium-sized pebbles or rocks; nest is a simple scrape or depression. Diet includes terrestrial invertebrates; less frequently, also ingests small vertebrates and seeds.