What does Buck learn to do as he adapts to life in the wild?

Buck learns to hunt and survive independently as he adapts to life in the wild. Throughout his journey, Buck transforms from a domesticated pet into a creature of instinct and resilience, mastering the skills necessary to thrive in a harsh environment. He learns to track and capture prey, tapping into his primal instincts and skills that have been dormant since his ancestors roamed free. This transformation is crucial for his survival in the unforgiving wilderness, demonstrating his ability to acclimate and evolve in response to his circumstances.

While the other options present challenges he faces in the wild, they do not capture the primary skill that becomes critical for Buck's survival and ultimate independence. Building shelter is not a focus in Buck's story; avoiding conflict with other dogs does occur, but it does not define his adaptability as much as learning to hunt does. Additionally, navigating back to civilization contrasts with his journey towards embracing his wild nature, making it less relevant to his character development. Buck's ability to hunt encapsulates his full transformation and is central to his identity as he embraces his wild heritage.