Gallinula galeata is distributed across a wide range that includes the southern parts of Canada, most of the United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and large portions of South America. This bird prefers freshwater wetlands such as marshes, ponds, canals, and lakes, often with dense emergent vegetation like cattails and reeds. It also occupies artificial habitats such as irrigation ditches, urban parks, and stormwater retention basins. In areas where permanent water is available, it may remain year-round, but northern populations migrate southward during winter. It has also established isolated populations on several Pacific islands and has been documented nesting in urban zones close to humans, especially where aquatic vegetation is preserved.

This species reaches about 12 to 15 inches in length and typically weighs between 10 and 15 ounces. Its appearance includes dark slate-gray plumage with a brown back, a white flank stripe, and a bright red forehead shield that extends into a yellow-tipped red bill. The legs are greenish with no lobes or webs, but they can walk efficiently on floating vegetation. Gallinula galeata exhibits territorial behavior during the breeding season and defends its nest aggressively, including chasing off larger birds. It constructs floating nests from dead vegetation and both sexes participate in incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks. In some regions, pairs can produce multiple broods per year. Juveniles are dull brown with no frontal shield and gradually acquire adult features. The call is a loud cackling or squawking, often heard at dawn or dusk. According to the IUCN Red List, Gallinula galeata is classified as Least Concern, with a global population estimated to be well into the millions.