They are found in most of Africa south of the Sahara and Madagascar. The New World population is found from Colombia south to northern Argentina.
Specimens seen in North America are more than likely escaped aviary birds.
Despite the large range, there are no subspecies. Diverse, from inland ponds, swamps and rivers to brackish estuaries and salt-water lagoons. The back of the head and neck is black, which makes the white face more prominent and makes this species easily recognizable. The flanks and abdomen are barred black and white. The sexes are similar.