It appears to be most closely related to several Australian and New Zealand plovers of genera Elseyornis, Peltohyas, Anarhynchus, and Pedionomus.

The habitat is "characterized by a network of grassy banks interspersed with long streams and vernal pools".

It is not known if this is true social monogamy, territoriality, a function of its sparse population, or because of lack of enough study.

[5] The diademed sandpiper-plover's egg period is from October to December in Chile and extends into January in Bolivia.

It has a moderately large range but its estimated population of 1500 to 7000 mature individuals is believed to be decreasing.

Though its habitat is thought to be relatively secure, " demand for water resources as well as overgrazing, road networks and human disturbance have been identified as threats".

[1] In addition, "[t]he unique peatlands ecosystem of the high Andes is projected to be severely reduced as a result of climate change" with up to 75% expected to be lost by about the year 2100.