Last updated: October 2026
Back in March 2025, we were approached by the Wildwood Trust with an exciting offer to sponsor the redevelopment of their lynx enclosure, based in their Kent Park. The project goal was to enhance the lives of Wildwood's resident Lynx, Flossie and Torridon – a brother and sister who were born in a zoo in France and transferred to Wildwood once they were ready for independent living.
What is the Wildwood Trust?
Wildwood is a native species conservation charity established in 2002 to push the boundaries of innovative conservation and rewilding. Working with nature to fight the biodiversity crisis, to halt extinction of species and to create resilient habitats in which nature thrives.
They focus on evidence-based solutions to return native species and recreating truly wild spaces.
Wildwood’s experience and expertise in working with native species means they can work effectively across the UK in many projects, including their flagship wilding project, Blean bison, Pine Marten restoration, Red Squirrel breeding and reintroduction - plus many more!
If you would like to read more about all the amazing things the Wildwood Trust do, you can find their website here - Welcome to Wildwood Trust.
What did the project involve?
The enclosure renovation was no small feat, as the plan was to quadruple the size of their current enclosure, to be known as the Lynx Habitat Project. This would form the facility which would become the focus of their captive breeding programme, a major step towards reintroducing lynx into British wildlife after several hundred years.
In addition to the enclosure, an elevated walkway was being incorporated, fully accessible and inclusive - allowing everyone to enjoy their visit. This would be the first and only facility offering a dual aspect viewing platform for its visitors – cool, right!
This was a huge project to undertake, but one which would enhance the lives of Flossie and Torridon.
How did Mesh Direct help?
Mesh Direct supplied 300m of our European made 25mm x 25mm 16g mesh, which was used to create huge open topped areas and platforms for the Lynx to explore, climb and rest. This is the same mesh we recommend for domestic cat enclosures and catios, so you can rest assured that Milo the tabby cat will be safe and secure when using our mesh!
Our cat enclosure mesh was used in conjunction with a specialist knotted fence for added security, although unless you are keeping wild Lynx in your garden our 25mm x 25mm 16g mesh will more than suffice for domestic feline friends! For more information on how to build a safe outdoor space for your cat, see our How to build a catio: A step-by-step guide.
Why was this project so important?
The project was incredibly important as Lynx are solitary, independent animals in the wild and like to have their own space, so their habitat needed to replicate their natural environment.
Their habitat is now complex and interesting, with a 1200m² inner enclosure and 2000m² outer enclosure. Designed in four sections that can be separated, the enclosure has been designed should the Lynx need to be moved or separated and also to make access for cleaning and maintenance easier on the keepers.
The new enclosure has helped to prompt behavioural change in the Lynx, with the keepers seeing a dramatic reduction in negative behaviours. Flossie and Torridon feel confident and at ease in their environment, which has allowed the keepers to implement new training programmes. They can also explore and climb which helps to keep the Lynx in great physical shape and provides plenty of natural enrichment.
The Lynx enclosure project has been featured on the BBC and in The Independent.
If you would like to visit the Lynx enclosure at the Wildwood Trust, Kent, you can visit them at: Wildwood Trust, Wealden Forest Park, Canterbury Road, Herne CT6 7LQ.
Testimonial:
“With the help of Mesh Direct and their generous support with providing the mesh for our Lynx Enclosure. It enables us to provide more enrichment for the Lynx so they are engaging in other parts of the environment we have built for them, this in the ways of more branching and platforms for them to climb. The mesh was easy to work with and looks great, making the enclosure look fantastic…thanks to all at Mesh Direct for their generous help”.
Marc, Head of Projects, The Wildwood Trust
Why trust Mesh Direct?
Mesh Direct is a family-run UK specialist established in 1952, with decades of hands-on experience supplying wire mesh, wire netting, and fencing solutions. Our guidance is shaped by real-world use across domestic, trade, and industrial projects, helping customers choose materials that are fit for purpose and correctly specified.
As members of the British Stainless Steel Association and recipients of the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award, we provide transparent, expert guidance you can rely on. If you are unsure which mesh is right for your project, our team can offer practical, application-led advice. Contact us for guidance.
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