This is a common migrant species to the lowlands. This species breeds in subarctic wetlands from Scottish Highlands across Europe and Asia. During winter they migrate to Africa, Southern Asia and Australia.
The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (IUCN Red List).
This is a species protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.
During the migrant season one or two individuals can be seen in most water-associated habitats such as waterways, lagoons, paddy fields, Marshlands etc. throughout the lowlands. It is very common in the dry zone and a lesser number visits the wet lowlands. In the north it is quite common in Jaffna peninsula and the Mannar Island. I have seen it in the Delft Island and Analathivu Island. The highest altitude at which I have seen it so far has been at Udawalawa national park at 373 meters.
This is a very common species at Wilpattu during the migrant season and can be seen feeding at the edge of the water line at all the water bodies.