While the human cast provided the narrative backbone, the true stars of Daktari were the animals. This wasn't a zoo show; it was a character drama where the protagonists happened to be lions, elephants, and hyenas. The production utilized the "Africa, U.S.A." park in California, allowing for seamless interaction between actors and animals that CGI still struggles to replicate with genuine soul.

: Marshall Thompson (Dr. Marsh Tracy), Cheryl Miller (Paula Tracy), Hari Rhodes (Mike Makula), Yale Summers (Jack Dane), and Hedley Mattingly (District Officer Hedley).

His unique look and gentle nature made him an instant pop-culture icon. Judy the Chimpanzee: