An animal that has a pouch for carrying its young is called a marsupial. Marsupials are a diverse group of mammals primarily found in Australia and nearby islands, although some species exist in the Americas. Notable examples include kangaroos, koalas, and possums. Female marsupials give birth to relatively undeveloped young, which then crawl into the mother's pouch to continue their development and nursing. This unique reproductive strategy allows the young to remain safe and nourished while growing. Marsupials are known for their distinct adaptations and play important roles in their ecosystems.