Final answer:
The tail is the body area with the lowest priority for nutrient utilization because it is less critical for the animal's survival compared to areas housing vital organs and structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of nutrient utilization within an organism, the body area which is typically given the lowest priority is D) the tail. When nutrients are scarce, the body prioritizes vital organ systems over less critical areas. The hindquarters and ribcage areas contain essential muscle and skeletal structures and organs that are crucial for basic functions and locomotion, while the neck supports the head and also contains important vascular structures. In contrast, the tail is not essential for the survival of most animals and thus, receives nutrients last.