How to Tell the Difference Between Male and Female Piping Plovers

Female Piping Plover copyright Kim SmithThe female’s neck collar, or band, is broken in the front and is paler in color.

Male Piping Plover copyright Kim SmithThe male’s neck collar is darker and goes nearly all the way around. Note too the black bar across his forehead.

Male and Female Piping Plover copyright Kim SmithGenerally speaking, the male is a bit larger and the bill a bit brighter orange (male left, female right). After the breeding season, the plumage of both male and female will become paler.

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