Inquiring minds want to know what it’s like being a baby pygmy hippo—and the staff at Tanganyika Wildlife Park didn’t disappoint! They’ve spent the last several months sharing daily updates on Mars, and each video is cuter than the last.
Recently, a dedicated staff member donned a scuba-style mask and took matters into her own hands to give fans exactly what they wanted: real-time underwater video footage of the sweet baby hippo in his favorite hangout spot.
At first, Mars looks a little unsure about the unexpected swimming partner. But after a few moments, the water aerobics begin. After a quick sniff of her cheetah-print shoes, Mars swims away looking like a floating baked potato.
The little hippo clearly enjoys the extra attention and does some underwater twists and turns before circling back around to play a little game of cat and mouse with the keeper.
One viewer, speaking on Mars’ behalf, joked, “These waters aren’t big enough for the both of us!” Another quipped, “Ma’am, your water potato is a little spicy! 🤣 Also, do you all just keep an extra closet at work or what?” Honestly, that’s a fair question—since the employee is wearing her everyday work attire, and not exactly swim-ready gear.
Related: Baby Pygmy Hippo Learns to Dive Off Pool Ledge and We Can’t Handle the Cuteness
A fan even asked, “What exactly is your job title, so I know what I’m applying for? Because YES!” 😭🥰 And another jokingly added, “Once again, no one told me this was a job option on career day!” 😭
How Long Can a Pygmy Hippo Stay Underwater?
According to the Tanganyika Wildlife Park, pygmy hippos can typically stay underwater for three to six minutes on a single breath. While they are underwater, their eyes, ears, and nostrils close to prevent water from entering. Pygmy hippos usually spend 12-15 hours a day in the water.
When a fan asked if guests would ever be allowed to swim with Mars, sadly the park replied, “We are not, but eventually he will have a meet and greet where you can paint with him, feel his slimy skin, get a photo with him, and learn all about Pygmy hippos.” 💚
Honestly, that sounds amazing too. Kansas might just become a popular vacation hotspot for pygmy hippo lovers everywhere!
This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Aug 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.