This species is found in open dry woodland, but sometimes also in cultivated areas with scattered trees or hedgerows, generally avoiding sandy desert (Jennings 2010, Aspinall and Porter 2011, Summers-Smith 2019). It has a strong preference for Ghaf (Prosopis cineraria) and acacia trees; however, during passage, almost any type of woodland is utilised, including mangroves, parks and large gardens (Jennings 2010). During the breeding season, the diet mainly consists of insects, in particular Orthoptera and Cicadidae, which are collected in the canopy of trees (Jennings 2010). Individuals on passage take nectar from flowering Eucalyptus and probably also Ghaf trees (Jennings 2010). Individuals arrive to the breeding grounds within the UAE from late March to April, when territories are established and males start singing. The breeding period is not known exactly, but it is assumed that three to four eggs are laid in April/May, which are incubated by the female, and juveniles fledge between mid-May and early July (Jennings 2010). Nests have not been described for the UAE. Elsewhere, they consist of; dry grass, wool and hair, lined with feathers. They are usually placed in a crevice in a tree or shrub in more than 2 m height. There might be competition for nest sites with other hole-breeders, including Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) and Pallid Scops-owl (Otus brucei) (Jennings 2010).