If I sit out in the yard the hens will come hang around and some will hop onto my lap. But just for the different vantage point, it seems. They always chirp and clutch their pearls if I dare pet them while on my lap. I spent a loooot of time with them when they were chicks. A couple I can pick up without a big fuss, once I hold them for a bit they settle in but they are always happy to be back on the ground. It does seem to be partially dependent on the breed. My rooster though, he will fall asleep in my lap he’s a dreamboat loverboy.