Individuals in poor habitat, or in areas of low food abundance or low population density, tend to have larger home ranges. Males have larger home ranges than females. Home ranges may shift to include good food sources. At high densities, may be territorial. At low densities, individuals scattered and home ranges may overlap.
Females defend the nest area from other squirrels.
Several squirrels may share winter dens. May breed in any month in California. Gestation lasts 44-45 days. Births begin in January, with most births in mid-March and July. Yearlings may produce only 1 litter.