Africa
The main character. Daughter of black leopard Giza and mother of Mosi and Binti.
- Outliving One's Offspring: Africa left her cubs in what she thought would be a safe place to challenge Chui for her territory. She returned to find Binti dead and Mosi missing.
- Parents as People: While it's clear she loves Binti and Mosi dearly, she still finds herself being sharp with them and wondering if she's raising them well enough.
Mosi
Africa's son.
- It's All My Fault: He blames himself for Africa losing her territory, as he wondered off during a hunting lesson and provoked Chui.
Binti
Africa's daughter.
- Children Are Innocent: She seems to be more naïve than her brother.
- Death of a Child: She's killed by Baba Bes due to Sabra.
- When Are You Coming Home Dad: Poor Binti can't quite seem to grasp the concept that male leopards usually don't stick around to raise their cubs with females, and the lack of her own father in her life bothers her especially after witnessing the African wild dog pups with theirs.
Giza
Africa's mother. She leaves Africa on her own at the end of the prologue.
Chui
A male leopard interested in taking over Africa's territory, who also has quite the flirtatious streak toward her.
- The Chessmaster: A cunning manipulator who knows how to pull strings and cut fast deals in order to get what he wants.
- Would Hurt a Child: Wants to kill Mosi and Binti so Africa will mate with him.
