Mine tunnels and deserted buildings also common as den sites. Nests made of dried foliage and sticks are constructed within the den. Captive animals drink water. Same as home range. Territory is marked with urine or with a gland secretion, forming characteristic white patches on rocks.
Males are extremely agonistic toward other males.
Apparently polygynous, with dominant male maintaining a harem of 2-3 females. Weaning at 26-30 days. Breeds the spring and summer following birth. Predators include weasels, martens, bobcats, coyotes, and owls. Adaptation to environmental temperature in two species of woodrats, Neotoma cinerea and Neotoma albigula.