Anas acuta, commonly known as the Northern Pintail, is native to a wide geographical range across the Northern Hemisphere. Its primary regions include North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of northern Africa.

The Northern Pintail typically inhabits open wetlands, such as marshes, shallow lakes, and ponds with sparse vegetation. These areas often feature fresh to brackish water. During winter, they may also be found in estuaries, sheltered bays, and agricultural fields.

Anas acuta occupies different ecological niches depending on the season. Breeding habitats are generally in the northern areas, characterized by open water and grasslands supporting their nesting. During winter migration, they adapt to wetland areas with available food resources, such as aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. This adaptability allows them to span a wide range of habitats throughout their migratory path.