Yearlong, diurnal activity. Usually breeds at higher elevations, and moves downslope for winter, following snowline. An area not defended, but male aggression increases as pair forms in spring. Female incubates about 25 days, while male remains nearby. Development of water sources in arid areas can increase habitat.
Heavy grazing can destroy habitat.
Life histories of North American gallinaceous birds. Bertrand, G. A., and J. M. Scott. Checklist of the birds of Oregon. Audubon Soc. of Corvallis. Grenfell, W. E., B. M. Browning, and W. E. Stienecker.