Individuals bask on the ground, on low branches of bushes, on low boulders. Mammal burrows and rock crevices may serve as hibernation sites during cold periods. Eggs are laid a few centimeters deep in nests dug in loose soil by the female. No information on water requirements. Does not require permanent water.
Activity is almost exclusively diurnal.
The length of the warm-season activity varies geographically and from year to year, but at most localities individuals are active from March or April to late September or early October. Juveniles appear to be active later in the fall than adults. Significant seasonal movement or migration has not been reported for this species. Lizards may occasionally move outside the normal area of activity to find suitable nest sites for egg-laying, or to find hibernation sites. Territorial defense is accomplished by posturing and physical combat.