This thickset plover species is identified from the two vagrant Golden plover species, by the larger and heavier bill, the short hind toe which is missing in the other species. The American Golden Plover and Pacific Golden Plover have yet to be recorded along the Breede. The white rump and black armpits (auxiliary feathers) seen in flight are key characteristics of the Grey Plover. In late summer, before these birds start the long journey to their breeding grounds, they can be seen in their transition plumage where the belly starts turning black. These birds are usually spotted in their non-breeding plumage.

Grey Plovers breed in the Arctic tundra. This means they are mainly found above 65° - 75° North. It is believed that the birds migrate to southern Africa originate from Siberia. It is estimated approximately 9000 birds migrate to South Africa every year, with Langebaan Lagoon recording the greatest concentration of these birds in the Western Cape.

In southern Africa these birds are a very common non-breeding visitors and are one of southern Africa’s most commonly occurring wader species. They start arriving in October and leave by April. However, in some areas juveniles will stay over winter.

These birds are found in a variety of coastal habitats such eelgrass beds and rocky or sandy coasts. However, these species prefer muddier areas of estuaries and lagoons. That is why these birds are common during spring and summer along the Breede. Small numbers of juveniles overwinter and it is worth keeping an eye out for them on the mudbanks all year round.

The Grey Plover feeds in a typical plover fashion by run-stop-search foraging method. They feed on small crustaceans (e.g. crabs, mudprawns, sandprawns and shrimps), marine polychaetes (segmented worms) and molluscs (small clams and snails). They feed during the day and at night at low tide.

These birds first breed at 2-3 years old and can live for at least 20 years. The Grey Plover is not globally threatened with current worldwide population trend for this species is decreasing.