Hanging a harvested game animal from a tree or a specially designed rack primarily serves the purpose of allowing air to circulate around the animal, which helps cool the meat more quickly. This is essential for preserving the quality of the meat after the animal has been harvested. When meat is not cooled promptly, it can spoil or develop off-flavors due to bacterial growth.
Additionally, hanging the animal can aid in the proper aging process, which can enhance flavor and tenderness if done correctly. The airflow can also help in drying the outer surface of the meat, which contributes to a better overall storage condition.
While the other choices mention various aspects of hunting, such as safety from scavengers and convenience during field dressing, they do not address the primary reason for hanging the animal, which focuses on meat preservation. Displaying the animal to other hunters is not a practical or necessary reason in this context; the primary focus is on maintaining the quality of the meat.