Passerina ciris, commonly known as the Painted Bunting, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution includes the southeastern United States and parts of Central America. The breeding range extends across the southern United States, particularly in states like Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Florida. During the winter months, populations migrate to southern Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America, with some reaching as far as Costa Rica and Panama.

The Painted Bunting typically inhabits areas with dense shrubbery and thickets, such as woodland edges, overgrown fields, and brushy areas near water sources. They prefer environments that provide ample cover for nesting and feeding. During migration and winter, they are often found in scrub areas, coastal thickets, and tropical savannas. The species adapts to a variety of climates but is commonly associated with subtropical and temperate zones, where temperatures range from mild to warm.

The ecological niche of the Painted Bunting includes being a seed-eater, particularly favoring seeds from grasses and forbs. Insects also form an important part of their diet, especially during the breeding season, supporting their role in insect population control. Their bright plumage is primarily for mating displays, and they are most commonly found singing from perches to establish territory during the breeding season. Habitat loss and fragmentation pose significant threats to this species, reflecting its reliance on specific environmental conditions for survival and reproduction.