When Do Ticks Become Active in Lake Villa and Antioch? If you are wondering when tick season begins in Northeastern Illinois, the direct answer is right now. Even with the recent low temperatures in our area, ticks are already present and active in local yards. The 45 Degree Rule: Ticks do not wait for hot summer weather. Blacklegged ticks wake up from their winter dormancy and begin searching for hosts the moment temperatures consistently reach 45 degrees. A single sunny afternoon is all it takes to bring them out of the brush. Knowing how to identify local ticks is the first step in yard safety. What Types of Ticks Are Most Common in Our Area? Homeowners in our region primarily encounter two specific species in their outdoor spaces: The Blacklegged Tick: Also known as the deer tick. This species is the primary carrier of Lyme disease. In their nymph stage, they are extremely small, often resembling a tiny speck of dirt or a poppy seed. The American Dog Tick: T...