The pied kingfisher (Ceryle rudis) is geographically widespread across Africa and Asia, inhabiting areas close to water, including mangroves, estuaries, and lakes. It is a medium-sized kingfisher with distinct black-and-white plumage and a small crest. The pied kingfisher primarily consumes a diet of fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects, and it nests in tunnels excavated from mudbanks.