This species occurs in a wide variety of habitats, mainly in deserts, semi-deserts and on arid mountains. It is often found near remote habitations and camps, villages and livestock enclosures (Aspinall and Porter 2011). It is omnivorous, but feeds mainly on carrion, invertebrates, young birds and eggs, and food scraps (Jennings 2010). Individuals often concentrate along roads to take advantage of the high food availability like spilt grain, road kill and rubbish (Jennings 2010). The species can survive for long periods without drinking water (Jennings 2010). Breeding pairs form in November, and nesting commences by February (Jennings 2010). The nest is typically placed high up in a tree, preferably acacia, date palm or mangrove, or occasionally on rocks and cliffs, pylons or tall towers (Jennings 2010). The nest is made of twigs, cloths and plastic, lined with soft goat and camel hair, wool, down, grasses, feathers and cloths (Jennings 2010). Nests may be used over several years, or dismantled to provide material for a new nest (Jennings 2010). Eggs are laid in February/March; the clutch size is variable and depends on food availability (Jennings 2010). After the breeding season in early summer, individuals abandon the breeding areas in the arid regions and form large flocks until late autumn (Jennings 2010).