New Forest Wildlife Park opens new enclosure for Eurasian Lynx sisters

New Forest Wildlife Park has opened a new enclosure for its two resident Eurasian lynx, Tora and Inga, replacing a habitat believed to have been in use since before the park came under its current ownership in 1998.

The new habitat was carefully designed and built by the park’s general manager and maintenance team, providing visitors with improved opportunities to see the elusive pair while prioritising their comfort and wellbeing.

The enclosure reflects the natural behaviours of Tora and Inga and includes multiple scratching posts, a raised sunbathing platform, and a high climbing tower. Built on a gentle slope, the habitat allows the lynx to rest at higher vantage points above visitor viewing areas, helping them feel secure while still giving guests a greater chance of spotting them. The new lynx enclosure was built within the footprint of the park's former wolf habitat. A separate new wolf enclosure is also under construction, with wolves set to return to the park in the near future.

“Tora and Inga are incredible ambassadors for their species,” said Carnivore Keeper Ben Hallett. “Their new home allows them to thrive while giving visitors a better opportunity to appreciate their natural behaviours.”

Tora and Inga arrived at the park in 2019, having been born at Highland Wildlife Park. The Eurasian lynx is the largest of the four lynx species and the third-largest predator in Europe after the brown bear and wolf. The species was once native to the UK but disappeared approximately 1,300 years ago due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and hunting.

Tora and Inga each have their own distinct personality. Tora, the more confident of the two, is often seen demonstrating her hunting instincts, while Inga, the quieter sister, prefers to observe her surroundings from a distance.

Visitors are most likely to see them during their feeding-time keeper talks.

The new development reflects the park’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education, ensuring both animals and visitors benefit from an enriched, engaging environment.