Most Parus species live in the tropics or sub-tropics, and are likely to show life history traits associated with relatively high survival and low fecundity. Based on a 15-year study we provide the first detailed account of the life history traits of an equatorial Parid, the Great Tits) and remained with their parents for up to three years. Helpers were recorded at 61% of Stripe-breasted Tit nests, and 76% of breeding adults had helpers during at least one breeding attempt. While latitudinal comparisons often focus on clutch size, much greater disparities were thus evident in other traits, including brood provisioning, the duration of postfledging care and the incidence of cooperative breeding.