Plain Prinia

A common prinia with drab gray-brown plumage that varies in tone across its range. Note the pale, wide eyebrow and the long tail that appears as if it is loosely attached to the body. Breeding birds have a black bill and a shorter tail. Common in various habitats, especially farms and wetlands, but avoids woodlands with a canopy. A somewhat bold species, it often skulks in the undergrowth but sings from exposed perches. The song is a repeated series of insectlike trills. Calls include various buzzing and clinking notes. Also produces snapping sounds with its wings.

The plain prinia (Priniainornata) in Sri Lanka lives in wet lowland grasslands, scrub, open woodlands, and gardens. It is a resident breeder that is common in paddy fields, scrub, and marsh lands.

The plain prinia's diet in Sri Lanka is mainly insects and their larvae. This bird is a passerine that is commonly found in paddy fields, scrub, and marsh lands.