Heraclides polycharmus is a large swallowtail butterfly characterized by a wingspan of about 90–110 mm and a predominantly black ground colour. The forewings display broad, diagonal yellow bands that contrast sharply with the dark background, while the hindwings feature well-developed swallowtail projections and a series of yellow marginal markings. Near the inner angle of the hindwings are distinctive red to orange eyespotsThe species occurs in Central America and parts of northern South America, where it inhabits forest edges, clearings, and subtropical woodlands, flying strongly and gracefully along vegetation.