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Three subspecies of this interesting bird have been recognized: C.d. curonicus breeds in North Africa, Europe and Asia. They migrate to the more temperate countries such as India, Sri Lanka and countries in southern Africa during winter. C.d. dubius breeds from the Philippines to New Guinea and the Bismarck Arch and C.d. jerdoni breeds in Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore and China.

The resident subspecies C.d. jerdoni breeds in the dry lowlands of the country. The birds of the migratory subspecies C.d. curonicus that arrive in the country can be found throughout the wet and dry lowlands during the winter season.

The conservation status of the species under reference is regarded as Vulnerable (National Red List 2012).
This is a species protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.

The resident race is not common but can usually be found at localities such as shores of large water bodies, mudflats and paddy fields. They are usually seen in pairs. They are never still and will run about in different directions stopping every now and then to probe the earth with their tiny beak. This race has a larger white patch on the forehead than the migratory race curonicus and their bright yellow eye rings are greatly swollen and thus more conspicuous. I have seen them at many locations in the dry zone including Anuradhapura, Giritale, Aralaganwila, Kalpitiya and Udawalawa.

In Wilpattu this species can be found throughout the year at Kokkare Villu. I have seen them at Alam Villu and Kali Villu.