Activity is almost exclusively diurnal. The length of the warm-season activity varies geographically and from year to year, but at most localities individuals are active from March or April to late September or early October. Juveniles appear to be active later in the fall than adults. Significant seasonal movement or migration has not been reported for this species. Lizards may occasionally move outside the normal area of activity to find suitable nest sites for egg-laying, or to find hibernation sites.
Territorial defense is accomplished by posturing and physical combat.
Newly emergent hatchlings have been observed from mid-August to late September. The sagebrush lizard is common In most habitats where it occurs. Some competition for food resources may occur with sympatric S. occidentalis. Differential microhabitat use resulting in minimal spatial overlap apparently allows the two species to co-occur. Sceloporus graciosus graciosus Baird and Girard, 1852.