State-of-the-art Lynx enclosure opens in Kent with plans to return the species to Britain
4th Nov 2025
Wildwood Trust has unveiled a new, state-of-the-art lynx enclosure at its Kent wildlife park, marking a major milestone in the charity’s mission to restore Britain’s lost species and reconnect people with native wildlife.
The pioneering conservation charity - known globally for reintroducing European bison to the wild - has designed the new facility to be ready to breed lynx for future reintroductions.
Paul Whitfield, Director General of Wildwood Trust, said:
“Lynx have been part of Wildwood for many years and are a vital species in telling the story of Britain’s natural heritage. When people visit Wildwood, they walk through a living woodland filled with the animals that once shaped our landscapes - from red squirrels and pine martens to wildcats, bison and wolves.
“This new facility is about more than creating a home for our lynx; it’s about helping to move them from a species we’ve lost to one we’re bringing back. The idea that lynx could once again roam our wild places is not only feasible but incredibly exciting - and something we should all celebrate.
“The Missing Lynx Project is currently exploring how these magnificent animals could one day return to the forests of Britain.”
The Missing Lynx Project, led by The Lifescape Project with Northumberland Wildlife Trust and The Wildlife Trusts, is exploring whether lynx could be successfully reintroduced to the UK after more than a thousand years. Focusing on a project area of Northumberland, Cumbria and southern Scotland, it is assessing whether local habitats and communities are ready for their return.
The Eurasian lynx is a native British predator that disappeared in medieval times due to woodland loss. As top carnivores, lynx help regulate deer and other prey, supporting healthier, more balanced ecosystems. With woodland cover in Britain now more than doubled, suitable habitat has returned. Research shows that a release of lynx in north-west Northumberland could become a viable population across the project area.
Reintroducing lynx could restore a lost part of the UK’s natural heritage while also bringing social and economic benefits through wildlife tourism, as seen in other European reintroduction projects. Their return could also support nature recovery and climate resilience by promoting healthier forest ecosystems.
A major feasibility study is underway, assessing suitable habitat, ecological benefits, and public attitudes towards lynx. So far, more than 1,000 people in the project area have shared their views - with 72% expressing support for the idea of bringing lynx back.
Dr Deborah Brady, Lead Ecologist at The Lifescape Project, said:
“We’ve done an in-depth consultation and it shows local people broadly accept the idea- and we also know that lynx could thrive in the area. We are continuing to discuss with local people to consider how a reintroduction project could work to maximise benefits and reduce risks.
“We hope to apply for a licence, but only once we have a plan that’s designed together with local people - one that sets out measures that are feasible and can actually work.”
“The new lynx habitat at Wildwood, just outside Canterbury, combines innovative enclosure design with public education and research. It provides a naturalistic woodland environment that reflects the species’ preferred habitat and supports potential future breeding programmes - a vital step should reintroduction plans be approved.”
The facility, which is home to Wildwood’s long-standing lynx residents Flossie and Torridon, includes over 300 metres of external fencing and a raised viewing walkway, giving visitors an immersive opportunity to observe lynx from multiple angles.
Mark Habben, Head of Zoo Operations at Wildwood, said:
“Our ambition is to breed lynx in the future, and this facility has been designed with that in mind. But just as importantly, it provides an engaging and educational habitat where visitors can connect with this remarkable species.
“With the new viewing platform, people will be able to experience these animals up close and appreciate their role in healthy ecosystems. We hope this exhibit helps challenge some of the myths surrounding lynx and showcases why they deserve a place in Britain’s wild future.”
Public debate around lynx reintroduction reignited last year after four lynx were illegally released in the Scottish Highlands, sparking national conversation about the species’ return. While the incident was unlawful, it highlighted misconceptions about lynx and their place in modern Britain.
Sally Holt, Head of Carnivores and Small Mammals at Wildwood, said: “While some people misunderstand lynx and how they live, in reality, lynx are shy, solitary animals that avoid human contact and play an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy.
“Part of our job at Wildwood is to help people see the lynx for what it truly is - a quiet, elusive predator of deer that once helped balance our natural landscapes.”
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