Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus

A smart-looking gray, black, and white lapwing; white crown and black face and breast. Immatures are mostly brownish. It is a common breeding resident that is strongly tied to wetlands, although it may also disperse into flooded grassland and adjacent dryland habitats to forage. Bold and brave parents, Blacksmith Lapwings have been known to launch defensive attacks on African Elephants and harass aerial threats like rollers or raptors in order to protect their young. A loud ringing “tink-tink-tink” call is uttered in series, like a blacksmith hammering on an anvil.