Fulica americana, commonly known as the American coot, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution extends across Canada, the United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America. During the breeding season, it is found predominantly in the northern parts of the United States and southern Canada. In winter, it migrates to as far south as Panama.

The American coot typically inhabits freshwater wetlands, lakes, and ponds with abundant vegetation. These areas provide the necessary conditions for feeding, nesting, and protection. They prefer open water bodies that are surrounded by reeds and other aquatic plants. The climate in these regions can vary significantly, from temperate zones in its northern range during breeding seasons to subtropical and tropical climates in Central America for wintering.

Fulica americana occupies the niche of a waterbird well-adapted to both swimming and terrestrial locomotion. It feeds primarily on aquatic vegetation, but its diet also includes algae, insects, and small vertebrates, making it an important species for the control of aquatic plant growth and maintenance of ecosystem balance. The American coot's ability to exploit various water bodies for breeding and wintering contributes to its widespread distribution.