Standing in the grass near Lake Magadi, Tanzania, a Blacksmith Lapwing (Vanellus armatus) showcases its bold, plumage.
Southern Africa is home to at least eight species of lapwings. All are members of the genus Vanellus (Latin for “little fan”), a name inspired by the distinct flopping sound produced by their wings in flight.
Unlike many birds with sleek wings, lapwings possess (proportionally) large, “blunt-tipped” wings that noisily displace air with every beat. They often appear to float before lurching into sudden, aerial zig-zags—a maneuver that baffles aspiring predators and photographers alike.
The bird pictured above is a Blacksmith lapwing (Vanellus armatus), a striking, long-legged wader found throughout Southern and East Africa. Look for it in open grasslands near water.
I shot this one in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.
Why is this bird called a “blacksmith”? Check our our post here to find out: “The Blacksmith Lapwing: The Small Bird That Takes On Elephants.”
Like birds? We are heading back to the savanna from June 3–13, 2027. If you want to photograph amazing species like the Bohor Reedbuck in their natural habitat, email us at BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com for travel details and to join our next expedition.
