Why do female wombats possess backward-facing pouches?
Answer
To prevent soil from entering the pouch while the mother is excavating
The orientation of the pouch is a direct evolutionary result of the wombat's primary activity: digging. Since the female wombat spends significant time excavating tunnels and moving earth, having the opening directed backward ensures that soil, dirt, and debris kicked up during this strenuous activity do not fall into the pouch. This critical anatomical feature protects the developing young, or joey, from being smothered or injured by the very environment the mother is creating for refuge.
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