Specifically, it is known to occur in the South American countries of Peru, Bolivia, Colombia and northern Brazil.

It also occurs in Mesoamerica, including central Mexico, and vagrants may rarely be observed as far north as Texas, United States.

[2] This species inhabits tropical deciduous and evergreen forests, and maycan be found in open areas.

Marpesia zerynthia occurs at altitudes up to 2,400 m. It is generally a cloud-forest species, and so it is most common between approximately 800 to 1,800 m.[3] Eggs are laid singly on the leaves of trees and shrubs in the family Moraceae, which includes the genera Ficus (figs), Chlorophora, Brosimum and Artocarpus.

Two black spots are present on the back of the head, and orange or yellow coloration, developing to dark brown, is visible at the intersections between body segments.

[3] The species is slightly sexually dimorphic, with females typically being rounder and larger than the males.

[4] Marpesia zerynthia is typically encountered in small groups of approximately six to twelve males, which are attracted to wet sand and mud to drink from the moisture, rich in minerals.

During hot weather, the butterflies flutter constantly and feed with wings erect or partially open.