Takhisis
In the Brooder
I've handled the ducklings regularly since day one and they still don't appreciate being picked up. If I get down on the floor they will sit next to me or crawl into my lap, but if I try to pick one up, oh Lord the dramatics! they sound like I'm trying to kill them. Then when I put them down, they're right back to following me everywhere.
You're right though, when they're on the couch with me they are almost demanding that I cuddle and will snuggle into whatever crevice they can find!
Oh my gosh, same! If mine are on the floor or sofa with me they all want to snuggle-bug up like crazy and go to sleep. But if I am lifting them in or out of the brooder? "MURDER! MAYHEM! HUN INVASION! CALL THE POLICE!" SO many dramatics.
I have had no luck with the baby/training harnesses either (the neck hole keeps slipping down over the tops of their wings and they go into gymnastics to get them off). Will definitely try the sock method you guys mentioned!