Urine output is lower than in other microtines. Probably obtains water from food. Populations reach high levels after a combination of mild winter temperatures, higher than average summer precipitation, and early autumn rains. At low densities, sagebrush voles occur in isolated colonies. Mainly nocturnal, but active at any time of day.
Daytime activity is highest in early morning and late afternoon.
Strong winds reduce activity. Sagebrush voles are social and may live in large colonies. Under laboratory conditions, males are agonistic toward nonreceptive females. The largest male probably dominates the colony. Summer sexual quiescence is particularly pronounced if summer precipitation is low.