I don’t know about you, but it has been a rough several weeks as news of the coronavirus pandemic has ruled the airways and social media. It is disheartening when such a real threat presents itself to us every day, morning, noon and night. We have little left to reduce stress, with many of us shut off from loved ones and the social groups we associate with every day such as our co-workers and fellow students. Closures of places we assume will always be there are adding to the anxiety. However, after a forced closure at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, staff realized it offered a rare opportunity for some of their residents to stretch their legs and explore. (1)

Penguins On Parade

The aquarium posted three penguins out on a field trip exploring the exhibits of their fellow residents. The Twitter post shows penguins getting a look at things from a visitor’s perspective. (1)

“Without guests in the building, caretakers are getting creative in how they provide enrichment to animals,” the aquarium says. “Introducing new experiences, activities, foods and more to keep them active, encourage them to explore, problem-solve and express natural behaviors.” (1)

Wellington The Penguin

Wellington, a rockhopper penguin got a glimpse at the creatures of the Amazon River on display at the Amazon Rising exhibit. The video shows the little fellow taking in the new view. As the oldest penguin, Wellington has lived at the aquarium since 1991. He didn’t hide his interest in the fish who probably appeared like a tempting treat. The fish were quick to size Wellington up as well, possibly nervous they looked like dinner to him. (1)

Penguin Love

Fellow penguins Edward and Annie made their debut waddling past the tank housing sharks and rays. Perhaps interested in what other exhibits they can visit; they headed for the information desk. The couple are “bonded” penguins which means they have chosen to nest with each other for life. On another outing, the pair visited Shedd’s rotunda. What better date for the bonded penguins as nesting season approaches? (1)

“While Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium may be closed to the public, animal care staff and veterinarians are onsite 24/7,” says the aquarium spokesman. It’s good to know these helpless animals will continue to receive the care they need during the pandemic. (2)

Penguins And Maras And Hippos Oh My

The Fort Worth Zoo also took advantage of their deserted zoo grounds allowing Hector, a Patagonian mara to get some fresh air. He visited with a trio of friendly otters that seemed happy to see him.

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden live-streamed video of popular resident Fiona the Hippo, while the El Paso Zoo’s “zoo cams” shared snippets of animals going about their daily lives. (1)

Zoos, along with other groups, people and organizations are reaching out to the world to keep people engaged during a very difficult time. With so many people sheltering in place, it is good to know so many communities are providing social support. From streaming and education and fitness to dance, the world has joined forces to keep people connected, calm and entertained. (3, 4, 5, 6)