It inhabits sandy deserts, mainly in matted and hillocky sands. In the southern part of the range it prefers vast sand massifs, in northern part prefers small sand areas separated by takyrs and salines. Sometimes found at oasis borders. Permanent summer and winter burrows are in open spaces, while shelter burrows are usually under bushes. Burrows are usually up to 60 cm deep (up to 80 in Balkhash region), with many exits. It feeds mainly on seeds, except spring (April - May), when green plant parts are significant part of the diet. Hibernation is up to 6 months. One litter per year, 3-8 young per litter.

It occurs from Karakum desert near Aral sea and western part of Uzboi to Ashgabat, Mary, western parts of Bukhara oasis, southeast Kyzylkum and Chuya Moinykum. Isolated population in south Balkhash basin.

It occurs in some protected areas.