Aythya ferina, commonly known as the Common Pochard, is native to the Palearctic region. It is primarily found across Europe and Asia, and parts of North Africa. During the breeding season, its range extends from the British Isles across Europe to western and central Siberia and China. In winter, the bird migrates further south to southern Europe, the Middle East, northern India, and southeastern Asia, including parts of North Africa and the Mediterranean region.

The Common Pochard typically inhabits freshwater environments. During the breeding season, they favor large, shallow lakes and reservoirs with abundant submerged and emergent vegetation, which provide ample feeding opportunities and nesting cover. In winter, they are often found in larger bodies of water, including estuaries, lagoons, and coastal bays, where they can form large flocks.

Aythya ferina is a diving duck that feeds primarily on aquatic plants, seeds, and a variety of invertebrates. Its ecological niche involves being a part of the freshwater wetland ecosystem, where it contributes to the control of aquatic plant growth and the balancing of invertebrate populations. Regional variations can occur in its diet, depending on the availability of food resources in different habitats.