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This is a breeding resident species found in the dry lowlands and the drier hills of the country. The Hoopoe is found in Africa, Europe and Asia and nine subspecies have been recognized across its range. The subspecies that is found in Sri Lanka and the Indian subcontinent is U.e.ceylonensis. It is smaller than the nominate race, has more rufous overall and has no white in the crest.

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

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

I have observed this species at all the dry zone national parks such as Udawalawa, Yala, Kumana, Bundala, Wasgomuwa, Galoya, Lunugamvehera, Minneriya, Kaudulla and Maduruoya. In the north I have seen them in the Jaffna peninsula and Trincomalee. During the migrant season they are very common in the Mannar Island.

I once observed a pair of this species in the Mannar Island trying to take over the nesting hole from a pair of Golden-backed Woodpeckers.

This is not a common species in Wilpattu. I have seen them at Maradanmaduwa, Kali Villu and Hunuwilagama.