Desert tortoises occur in a wide variety of habitats in arid and semiarid regions. They require friable soil for burrow and nest construction. Highest densities are achieved in creosote bush communities with extensive annual wildflower blooms, such as occur in the western Mojave. However, tortoises can be found in areas of extensive lava formations, alkali flats and most other desert habitats. Home range size seems to depend upon the quality of the habitat.
Tortoises are aggressive but there is no evidence that they defend territories.
Copulation begins shortly after the tortoises become active in late March or early April. Nests are often constructed at the entrance to burrows. Failure of rainfall and consequent scarcity of annual plants may result in reproductive failure. Amphibians and Reptiles 212. Bramble, D. 1982.