Final answer:
Mowat observes George's gentle and nurturing demeanor towards the pups that made him gives the wolf a name, "George".
Step-by-step explanation:
Mowat names the third wolf George after witnessing his playful and affectionate interactions with the pups. This occurs in Chapter 22 of the book "Never Cry Wolf".
After observing George's gentle and nurturing demeanor towards the pups, Mowat realizes that he is more than just a predator. He sees George as a protector and caretaker, and he begins to feel a sense of kinship with the wolf. This emotional connection leads Mowat to give George a name, further solidifying their bond.
The naming of George marks a significant turning point in Mowat's understanding of wolves. He begins to see them not as mindless killers, but as complex individuals with distinct personalities and relationships. This realization challenges the prevailing stereotypes about wolves and paves the way for a more nuanced understanding of their role in the ecosystem.