Feeding Behavior

Forages mostly while running about on the ground; also does some foraging up in shrubs and desert trees. Occasionally makes short flights to catch insects in mid-air.

Eggs

3-4, sometimes 2. Whitish to very pale blue. Details of incubation not well known. Young: Probably both parents feed the nestlings. Age at which young leave the nest not well known. May raise 2 broods per year.

Young

Probably both parents feed the nestlings. Age at which young leave the nest not well known. May raise 2 broods per year.

Diet

Mostly seeds and insects. In general, probably eats more seeds in winter, more insects in summer. Also feeds on fresh green shoots, other green vegetation, and ripe berries and fruits when available. Can survive without water at some times of year, drawing its liquid from insects and green plants that it eats. Young are fed mostly insects.

Nesting

Male sings in breeding season to defend nesting territory. Timing of nesting activity may vary from year to year, depending on timing of rains. Nest site is in a low shrub or branching cactus, typically well hidden and usually within 2' of the ground; sometimes placed on ground at base of shrub. Nest is a rather bulky, sturdy open cup of grass, weeds, plant fibers, and small twigs, lined with fine grass, plant down, and often with animal hair.