This lapwing occurs in separated areas of the East African highlands and southern Africa, where it forages on open ground.
Adults are notable for their black wings.
In southern Africa it descends from inland highlands to the coast after breeding. On the ground it runs, pauses, and searches for termites and other invertebrates.
In southern Africa the nest is a ground scrape lined with roots, small stones and dried dung. It lays 1–4 eggs; both sexes incubate by day, while the female incubates at night.
In southern Africa chicks remain in the nest for up to about 24 hours while their down dries. They then follow the parents, which guide them to food that the chicks eat themselves.
The head, neck and upper breast are grey, with a white forehead patch extending around the eye. A black breast band contrasts with the white belly and flanks.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.