Himantopus mexicanus, commonly known as the Black-necked Stilt, is native to North, Central, and South America. It is primarily found in the Americas, with its range extending from the United States (as far north as California and Nevada) through Mexico and Central America, reaching into parts of South America, including coastal regions of Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.

The Black-necked Stilt typically inhabits aquatic environments such as marshes, shallow lakes, ponds, and other wetland habitats. These areas are characterized by mudflats, salt flats, and shallow water bodies that are rich in invertebrates, which form their primary diet.

The species plays an important role as a predator of aquatic invertebrates. Its long legs and thin bill enable it to wade into shallow water, foraging for insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. It often nests on the ground near water, utilizing the open, sparsely vegetated landscapes for both nesting and feeding. In some regions, they may adapt to different wetland types, including salt marshes and rice fields, depending on the availability of resources.