The species occurs in or near springs, water courses, marshes and wet meadows.
Aquatic larvae feed primarily on algae and plant material.
Such individuals often attempt to escape capture by hopping into the water and seeking the shelter of undercut banks of watercourses. In winter individuals appear to seek shelter in rodent burrows or in depressions under surface objects. Breeding and egg laying occur primarily in the shallow water where the current is not strong. Always associated with wet places and appear to require the water provided by permanent springs. Active diurnally March to November but with some crepuscular and nocturnal activity during the warmest periods.