Spends most of its time at sea, coming to land only to reproduce. The ashy storm-petrel does not migrate. Diet not well known. Does not excavate a burrow or enlarge the cavity.
Specialized glands excrete salt through nostrils.
For nesting, prefers offshore islands with talus slopes and also prominent peninsulas. Forages over open ocean off the continental shelf. Nocturnal at the breeding colonies. Nesting pairs enter and leave nest only at night. Presumably sleep in burrow or on water at sea.