This kangaroo rat inhabits desert grassland with isolated scrubby bushes. The rocky islands are barren, except for scrubby yews and junipers and thin volcanic soil. Nests are also constructed in thickets, orchards, and scrubby woods. They are common in the Olympics, preferring wet scrubby thickets and second growth timber. This species nests in colonies along thornveld and scrubby, dry riverbanks. Mostly sand, a small portion has some scrubby vegetation. Brushwood and scrubby trees grow on the canyon slopes, which can accommodate the dry season. The surrounding area, or "gold country", is quite harsh, rocky land with scrubby regrowth vegetation. Scrubby noxious plants, some of which were poisonous, replaced this vegetation. They feed on seed and leaves of the scrubby vegetation that grows in their territories. The species can be found in open and scrubby country including beaches and open woodlands. Bits of scrubby vegetation can be seen in the background of some shots. The breeding habitat is open scrubby areas. This breed is very hardy and can survive on rough, scrubby feed. Ball resembles a Laekenois, with scrubby light fur and black ears.