They inhabit tropical and subtropical Australia, the Philippines, Borneo, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific Islands.

They range in size from 54–60 cm in height and weigh on average 750 grams.

They mainly feed on grasses, waterlilies, water plants and occasionally insects and aquatic vertebrae.

The wandering whistling duck lives in deep lagoons, flooded grasslands or dams.

During this time six to fifteen eggs are laid in a nest not far from water and usually in high grass or a sheltered area.