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This is an uncommon breeding resident found through out the lowlands. It is seldom found beyond mid hills. During the migrant season the resident numbers are supplemented by migrants. Other than in Sri Lanka this species breeds in tropical Asia from Bangladesh, Pakistan, India east to China, Indonesia and Australia.

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 at Bellanwila Attidiya, Kotte Marshes, Thalangama, Muthurajawela, Polonnaruwa, Ampara, Kurunegala, Bundala & Wasgomuwa National Parks, Oliyagankele in Kamburupitiya, Nawadankulala and Kalametiya. In the north I have seen it in Mannar and Jaffna Peninsular. The highest altitude at which I have seen it is in Kandy at 496 meters.

This is not a commonly seen species at Wilpattu. I have seen it at Pomparippu Tank  and Mila Villu.