Ord's kangaroo rats are nocturnal.
Males are usually more abundant and active than females.
Ord's kangaroo rat breeding season varies with subspecies and area. The average length of the breeding period is 6.8 months. In Texas males are fertile all year, with peak reproductive activity occurring between August and March. Higher reproductive rates are associated with increased precipitation and food supply and decreased population density. Gestation lasts 28 to 32 days.