Research overview: naturalistic exhibit design and behavioural opportunity for felids

Modern exhibit design aims to provide not just naturalistic appearance for visitors but genuine behavioural opportunity for animals. This overview surveys principles of felid exhibit design: complex, vegetated, three-dimensional space with climbing structures, varied substrates, water features, multiple resting and hiding sites, and the ability to control exposure to visitors and conspecifics. It examines the distinction between landscape immersion designed for human perception and functional complexity that supports natural behaviour, evidence on how design features affect activity, stereotypy and stress, and the trade-offs between naturalism, visibility and management practicality. It discusses rotation exhibits and shared spaces. The synthesis frames good felid exhibit design as one that maximises meaningful behavioural choice, with naturalistic aesthetics serving rather than substituting for welfare.