The mammal known for having a pouch to carry its young is the kangaroo. Kangaroos are marsupials native to Australia and its surrounding islands. Female kangaroos have a special pouch where they carry and nurse their young, called joeys, as they develop. After birth, the tiny, underdeveloped joey climbs into the pouch to continue its growth and receive nourishment from its mother's milk. This pouch provides a safe environment, protecting the joey from predators and allowing it to remain close to the mother as she moves about. Kangaroos are also known for their powerful hind legs and distinctive hopping gait.