Where did the ticks go? They’re still there. When we get very dry weather, like last summer and fall, ticks will stay in their harborage areas. There will likely be some reduction in the population with the dry weather. These early winters and warmer than average temperatures would likely negate any reduction in the population so I expect that by spring we will have normal to above average populations present.
What should you do? Remain vigilant. Check yourself and your pets daily for ticks. Wear treated clothing like permethrin treated pants and shirts. Treat your lawn and tick harborage areas with pyrethroid insect controls. Notice I didn’t say don’t go hiking, or play in your yard, or walk your dog. For sure do those things but check afterwards. I can spray your yard to reduce the tick population, but the rest is up to you!