#off the bat I think of horses penguins meerkats wolves

[thenecropolix]

So basically what I'm hearing is that we should add some extra enrichment to the engine's "enclosure" (rail-accessible) areas? Tbh that checks out

What has the strongest effect on morale, you reckon? Texture-based toys? Audio response (eg. Things that jingle when bumped) toys? Visual toys eg. A wall of lava lamps?

For collective morale, I don't think there's really one option that will have the strongest effect because each train will have different needs; if I really had to choose, I would say audio due to ease of accessibility on the railway's part, but ultimately it's dependent on the individual trains

For example, Gordon clearly shows interest in music and detests any form of physical labor that he believes is "beneath" him (e.g. shunting); ergo, it'd make sense that he'd gravitate toward audio response toys

By contrast, we are shown very early on in one episode that when given a "day off" Thomas resorts to shunting/bumping cars for fun; it'd would make more sense then that he may prefer tactile toys

It's those possible differences that could clash amidst the trains, not unlike how some people enjoy one form of stimulation, but then others loathe it; much like what is recommended with pets and wild animals, variety is key to combat boredom while ensuring all individuals are equally entertained