Dependent upon croplands, especially grain crops, with adjacent herbaceous and woody cover. Also occurs in perennial grasslands with sufficient cover. Eats waste grain, other seeds, other plant parts. Insects and other arthropods important in spring and summer, especially for chicks. Tall, rank herbage, shrubs, and woodland required for cover, near feeding areas.
Insufficient cover is a major habitat problem nowadays.
Yearlong, diurnal activity. In winter, may band together in areas where there is adequate food and cover. Male establishes a crowing territory of 1 to several ha during breeding season. Breeding begins in March or April. Usually 1 clutch, but will renest if first is lost.