Oklahoma boy astounds classmates with his ability to do 50 different bird calls

Choctaw, Oklahoma — Samuel Henderson, an eleven-year-old boy from Choctaw, Oklahoma, possesses a remarkable talent that sets him apart from his peers. Despite being autistic and having Tourette syndrome, Samuel has the unique ability to perfectly imitate the calls of about 50 different bird species.

When asked about his talent, Samuel humorously remarked, “Some people say that I swallowed birds.” He shared that while he can flawlessly mimic a wide range of bird calls, the barn swallow remains the most challenging for him. From a blue jay to a tufted titmouse to a robin, Samuel’s repertoire of bird calls is truly impressive.

For a long time, Samuel honed his skills in solitude, practicing his bird calls alone on the playground along the back fence. Many of his classmates had never witnessed his incredible talent until the annual 2024 Nicoma Park Intermediate School talent show.

Despite his desire to participate, Samuel faced hesitation as no student from special education had ever taken part in the talent show, which typically featured singing, dancing, and musical performances. His mother, Lori Henderson, expressed her concerns, fearing potential cruelty from other students. However, Samuel’s teacher encouraged him to showcase his talent and spread his wings.

With trepidation, Samuel took the stage at the talent show, leaving the audience in awe with his bird calls. Initially puzzled by the sounds, his classmates were soon captivated by his performance. Witnessing Samuel’s courage and passion, the crowd erupted in applause, celebrating his unique talent.

Reflecting on the heartwarming moment, Lori shared, “The kids were roaring. I was so happy to see him living his dreams. My heart just exploded.” Since that unforgettable performance, Samuel has become a playground sensation, teaching his peers how to mimic bird calls with enthusiasm.

Almost a year has passed since the talent show that transformed Samuel’s school experience. Today, he continues to inspire others with his bravery and talent, proving that true passion knows no boundaries.