Uses levees in agricultural habitats. Nests are constructed in burrows. Probably does not require water. Prefers open, flat, grassy areas in fine-textured, sandy soil. Prefers sandy soil for hibernation.
Density is correlated with winter rainfall.
Activity is bimodal in summer, peaking early and late in day, and unimodal in fall and spring, peaking at midday. More active after rain. Home range may shift to include preferred foods, but home ranges remain relatively stable for 2, or more, years. Adults are territorial, beginning in March. Juveniles become territorial in July or August.