Here's why:
* Disease: Rotting meat can carry diseases that can make a fox sick.
* Smell: The strong smell of rotting meat can attract other predators, potentially leading to competition for the food or even putting the fox at risk.
* Preference: Foxes generally prefer fresh meat and will often seek out other food sources if available.
However, if a fox is extremely hungry or if there are no other food options, it will eat rotting meat. This is especially true in harsh environments or during times of scarcity.