Most of their lifestyle seems to be associated with a relatively poor thermoregulatory ability. The body temperature fluctuates relative to ambient temperature, tending to increase during warmer parts of the day and after extended sessions of sunbasking. They are predominantly diurnal, emerging in cool weather well after sunrise and retiring to the rock shelter before sunset. They are reluctant to emerge if the weather is overcast or cold, and do not do so at all during rainy periods. They will seek shade during very hot weather.
Individuals regularly crowd together in holes to conserve heat.
They may be found feeding at any time of the day, provided it is warm and sunny, with peaks of activity in the early morning and late afternoon. Group home ranges average 14,000 square feet. The dominant male of a group is territorial and repels other males. Females do not defend their range, and may allow an outside female to join the group. Group size averages 4 to 10.