Critical habitat has not been designated.
Adults have sand-colored upper parts and white undersides.
During the breeding season, piping plovers have a single dark band across the breast and forehead. They can be distinguished from similar species by their bright orange legs. May. Males defend territories and attract females with aerial displays. Piping plovers are monogamous and both parents participate in all stages of parental care. Four eggs are typically laid in a shallow nest scrape and hatching occurs 25 to 31 days after completion of the clutch.