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Common Name : Ashy Prinia     -       Scientific Name : Prinia socialis       -       Other Name : Nil Hambukurulla (S)
Wilpattu
Wilpattu
Wilpattu

This is a breeding resident found through out the island from the highest hills to the lowlands. The active little bird of the grasslands is found across the Indian Subcontinent. The race found in Sri Lanka, P.s.brevicauda is endemic to the country.

The conservation status of this species is regarded as “Least Concerned” (National Red List 2012).

This is a species protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.

I have seen this species in most open locations excluding tall forests. It is sure to be found wherever there are Mana Grass fields even within the city limits of Colombo. Other than its usual calls this interesting bird makes a “clicking” sound when flying which is said to be made with its beak.

In Wilpattu I have observed this species to be very common in areas bordering the park including the village tanks. Within the park it is abundant at Hunuwilagama tank, Holambalagama tank, Pallekandal, Pomparippu and the water bodies along the road between Eluwankulama to Marichchakaddi.