While much of the world heads into lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic, a group of penguins at an aquarium in the US have made the most of humanity’s retreat into self-isolation.

Schools have been closed, social gatherings banned and travel restrictions imposed throughout the country – but for the rockhopper penguins at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, this weekend brought a rare venture into the outside world.

With the building closed to visitors as part of efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus, otherwise known as Covid-19, the animals were allowed to leave their usual habitat to explore the rest of the aquarium.

“Without guests in the building, caretakers are getting creative in how they provide enrichment to animals,” the aquarium told the Chicago Tribune.

“Introducing new experiences, activities, foods and more to keep them active, encourage them to explore, problem-solve and express natural behaviours.”

In one video posted on Twitter by the Shedd Aquarium, a penguin called Wellington can be seen peering into the tank of a school of Black-barred Silver Dollar fishes.

The aquarium said it would also be continuing to celebrate animal birthdays.

“While we are closed to the public ... animal care staff are onsite 24/7 to continue looking after the animals, including celebrating birthdays! Today on #PiDay giant river turtle Yam turns 28 years old...and so does animal care specialist, Evan!” one tweet read.

In a statement released on its website, the aquarium announced it is planning to close to the public until 29 March “in the best interest of overall wellness for our community and for each other”.

“While we are disappointed that we won’t be able to welcome you to the aquarium during this time, we are closing out of an abundance of caution and to do our part in the social distancing efforts to help stop the further spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).”

The aquarium added it would be continuing to provide round-the-clock care for on-site animals.

Meanwhile, all bars and restaurants in Illinois have been ordered to remain shut to the public until 30 March.