The genus Remiz is almost exclusively Palearctic, ranging discontinuously from Portugal and the tip of northern Morocco through to Siberia and Japan.

Their long conical bill is used to probe into cracks and prise open holes in order to obtain prey.

Their foraging behaviour is reminiscent of the true tits (Paridae), foraging upside-down on small branches, manoeuvring branches and leaves with their feet in order to inspect them, and clasping large prey items with one foot while dismembering them.

These nests are woven from spiderweb, wool and animal hair and soft plant materials, which are suspended from twigs and branches in trees.

Which taxonomic lineup scientists prefers is primarily a matter of taste; that these families are close relatives is well established by now.

[6][7] The placement of the tit-hylia within this family is particularly controversial, it having variously been placed with the sunbirds, waxbills, honeyeaters and most recently close to the green hylia.