This sparrow winters in open woodlands, brushy grasslands and shrubby areas. It feeds mainly on the ground and eats seeds in the winter and insects, buds and seeds in the summer. This common species nests in shady, protected areas on or near the ground in coniferous and broad leaf tree forests. The nest is made of grass, moss, and feathers.
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During the winter, this handsome and large sparrow commonly moves through open scrub lands, weedy agricultural fields and suburban areas in large flocks, often together with four or five other species of sparrows. Here they eat grass seeds and occasionally fruits. During the summer, pairs of these sparrows can be found in open habitats ranging from coastal shrubs to alpine and tundra meadows. Here they feed on insects grass shoots and moss capsules.