This is a very common breeding resident of the lowlands and large numbers arrive in the country during the migrant season. This species is native to Eastern and Southern Asia and Australasia.
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.
This is one of the most common species particularly during the migrant season and can always be seen in the company of cattle from the highest mountains to the lowlands.
It is a common species in Wilpattu and can be seen in most open fields. I have also observed a large roosting colony of water birds comprising mostly of this species at Eluwankulama about 1km before the park entrance.