Self-introduced from Australia the white-faced heron is now the most common heron having benefited from the widespread conversion of forest to farmland. They are found throughout Australia and also occur in Indonesia, New Guinea and New Caledonia.

White-faced herons can be found anywhere where there is water, from tidal mudflats and coastal reefs to moist grasslands and gardens. They feed on a wide variety of prey, including fish, insects and amphibians. Food is obtained in a variety of ways, such as walking and disturbing prey, searching among damp crevices or simply standing in the water and watching for movement.