Tulare Co. Populations are discontinuously distributed in isolated patches of suitable habitat. Usually common where they occur, individuals are active on the surface only when free water in the form of seeps, drips, or spray is available. This species occurs in massive rock areas in mixed conifer, red fir, lodgepole pine, and subalpine habitats.
Food is obtained under surface objects, or while foraging on the surface at night.
Winter hibernation probably occurs within deep rock fissures or under slabs of exfoliating granite. Little is known about specific microhabitat requirements for breeding and egg laying. Eggs are probably deposited beneath granite rocks or slabs covering moist granite soil. Water requirements during the period of surface activity are met by snowmelt, seepages, and spray from waterfalls. During the remainder of the year moisture is provided by seepages within rock fissures or other subsurface refugia.