Cabezon occur from Point Abreojos, Baja California, to Sitka, Alaska. Cabezon are usually found on the bottom around rocky reefs and kelp beds in water less than 100 feet deep, although they are known to occur as deep as 250 feet. Small abalones are swallowed whole and the shells are regurgitated after some digestion takes place. These shells are sometimes beautifully polished by the action of the acids. Male cabezon first mature when about two years old and 13.5 inches long, females when three years old and 17.5 inches long.
Females grow faster and attain larger sizes than do males.
Spawning takes place from November through March, peaking in January. The adults tend to congregate at nesting sites. The eggs are laid in large masses on cleared rocks. The individual nest is guarded by the male who will drive away any intruder. A three pound female will lay an average of 48,700 eggs and a 10 pounder, 97,600.