Food sometimes is cached. Other suitable forms of cover are rotten logs, litter, stumps, and snags, any of which may be the site of a large nest with a central chamber. This species seems to be a relatively inefficient burrower. Probably obtains water from vegetation and dew. Prefers dense oak-bay woodland or mature chaparral or coastal scrub interspersed with grassy areas.
Density is related to presence of woodrat nests and, in woodlands, density of California bay.
May invade dry habitats seasonally. There may be an activity peak just before dawn. May invade dry habitats in spring and early summer. Mating may be yearlong, but occurs mostly from March to September. Most young are born from April through October.