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This is a breeding resident found commonly in the dry lowlands and mid hills of the country. Globally it is found from West Asia through the Indian Subcontinent to Southeast Asia.

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 exquisitely coloured bird and its lively calls are a common feature of the dry zone areas of the country. It is rarely seen in the wet zone but ascends the hills adjoining the dry zone such as the Knuckles mountain massif. The highest altitude at which I have seen it so far has been at the Goomera estate in Panwila adjoining the Knuckles forest reserve at an altitude of 1080 meters. Usually a pair will visit the flowering plants in its territory and the male will continuously make its loud call announcing their presence. They are active little birds and are always busy looking for nectar or cobwebs to build their nests.

If you are lucky enough to locate a nest and stay concealed with good photographic gear you can be rewarded with some excellent photos as both the male and the female as they will visit the nest regularly.

They are common in Wilpattu and can often be seen and heard during the day.