The largest member of the tit family, as its name clearly denotes, it can reach a length of up to 14cm (5.5in). It has a typical black and white face pattern and a broad yellow breast, embellished by a black bib, which extends to a wide black stripe down the underbody, ending in a patch between the legs. Distinguishing males from females is generally difficult, although the characteristic black and yellow pattern is bolder on the males and duller on the females.