Thanks for the suggestions. I think we will be investing in a snake hook as I continue to hear it is a useful tool. Last night we tried to get him out again. He was in the corner in a position hard to get to him from the rear. We rubbed his back with a paper towel roll. He did strike it once but then sat still while we rubbed a few more seconds. I put the roll between his face and my hand and grabbed him around the side. He was calm in my lap, not exploring but not balled up tight. My son was making up his bed about 5-10 feet away and he kept half-heartedly striking when he would pass by but settled when he sat down. Not sure why he seems so defensive all the sudden but we will keep at it!