The Oxyura jamaicensis, commonly known as the Ruddy Duck, is native to the Americas. It is primarily found in North America, with a significant presence in the western and central regions of the United States, Canada, and parts of Mexico. The species can also be found in smaller populations in Central America and the Caribbean.

The Ruddy Duck typically inhabits freshwater marshes, ponds, and lakes with abundant aquatic vegetation and shallow waters. These habitats provide the necessary resources for feeding, nesting, and breeding. Ruddy Ducks prefer regions with a temperate climate but can adapt to various conditions across their range when seasonal migrations occur.

As a diving duck, the Ruddy Duck feeds primarily on aquatic invertebrates and seeds from water plants, playing a role in controlling insect populations and in dispersing seeds. The species is well adapted to life in water, with specialized foraging techniques and a unique courtship display conducted on the water's surface. The Ruddy Duck often utilizes dense vegetation along water bodies for nesting, providing protection for their eggs and young from predators.