 Through phylogenetic analyses for the complete mitogenome sequence, South Korean and Chinese "C. pygmaea" groups were indicated to be closely related to "Arenaria interpres" because of the similarity in the series of protein-coding genes.Its feeding style consists of a side-to-side movement of the bill as the bird walks forward with its head down.This species nests in June–July on coastal areas in the tundra, choosing locations with grass close to freshwater pools.