Jacana spinosa, known as the Northern Jacana, inhabits freshwater marshes and wetlands across Central America. Notably, it features long toes and claws that enable it to walk on floating vegetation. It exhibits polyandrous behavior, where females mate with multiple males, who then incubate eggs and rear young.

Jacana spinosa, commonly known as the northern jacana, is native to tropical regions of the Americas. Its geographical distribution includes parts of Mexico, Central America (countries like Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama), and extends into northern South America, including parts of Colombia and Venezuela. The species is also found on some Caribbean islands such as Jamaica and Cuba.

The northern jacana inhabits freshwater wetlands, marshes, and ponds with abundant floating vegetation. These environments are typically characterized by warm, tropical climates with high humidity and temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. The presence of aquatic vegetation is crucial for their foraging and nesting activities.

Jacana spinosa plays a significant role in the wetland ecosystems. They are known for their unique adaptation of long toes and claws, which allow them to walk on floating vegetation. This adaptation enables them to forage for insects, mollusks, and seeds both on the water's surface and among the aquatic plants. The species is an important part of the food web, serving as both predator and prey within its ecological niche.