What is the purpose of hanging a harvested game animal from a tree or rack?

Hanging a harvested game animal from a tree or rack primarily serves to allow air to circulate around the animal, which helps cool the meat more quickly. Cooling the meat is essential for preventing bacterial growth and maintaining meat quality. When the animal is hung in an elevated position, warm air can escape and cooler air can circulate around the carcass, facilitating a more rapid reduction in temperature.

This process also aids in the aging of the meat, which can enhance its flavor and tenderness. Proper cooling is a vital aspect of field care to ensure that the meat remains safe to eat and does not spoil before it can be processed. While other factors, such as protecting the animal from scavengers and making field dressing easier, may also play a role, the primary purpose related to the meat's quality rests in promoting air circulation and cooling.