Pluvialis squatarola, commonly known as the Grey Plover, is native to coastal regions around the world. Its breeding range is primarily in the Arctic, across northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. It migrates during the non-breeding season to coastal regions in Africa, South America, southern Asia, and Australia.

During the breeding season, the Grey Plover inhabits tundra environments with open, grassy plains close to wetlands or water bodies. The climate in these regions is characterized by short cool summers and long, cold, windy winters. During winter migration, the species prefers coastal mudflats, estuaries, sandy beaches, and lagoons, where the climate is usually milder.

The Grey Plover primarily feeds on invertebrates which it finds in shallow waters or mud, such as worms, mollusks, and crustaceans. It uses its acute vision to spot prey on the ground, making it well-suited to wide, open habitats where it can easily forage.