Head of the Berlin Zoo and Adolf Hitler's chief zoologist. He is Jan's professional rival who visits the Warsaw Zoo and proposes converting it into a pig farm to fund his aurochs experiments. He becomes obsessively infatuated with Antonina, using his authority to threaten and intimidate the Żabińskis and their hidden Jewish guests. His cruelty culminates in a violent confrontation at the zoo before abandoning his post.
Competing zoologists with opposing professional and ethical standings.
Heck represents the occupying force that systematically targets Magda and other Jews.
Heck's regime actively hunts and deportees individuals like Maurycy.
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