Actitis macularius, commonly known as the Spotted Sandpiper, is native to North America. It is widely distributed across the continent, ranging from Alaska and Canada down through much of the United States, and into Central America and the Caribbean. During the winter months, the species migrates to Central and South America, reaching as far south as Argentina.

The Spotted Sandpiper inhabits a variety of watery environments, including the shores of lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. It is also found in freshwater wetlands and at times, along seacoasts during migration. The species prefers environments with vegetative cover nearby for nesting and protection. Typical environmental conditions include temperate to subtropical climates with access to water bodies.

Spotted Sandpipers are primarily ground foragers, feeding on insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates they find along the water's edge. During breeding seasons, they occupy regions with ample food supply and suitable nesting sites. Their breeding territories are usually along fresh water bodies, where females lay eggs on the ground among rocks or tall grasses. Their ecological role includes controlling insect populations and serving as prey for larger predators.