Two kitten - help with the aggressive one

[SubParbanMum]

we have two lovely ginger kittens, just turned 4 months. Got them at about 13 weeks. One is a big softy, loves a cuddle and will come and sit on us all the time - when playful can swipe but only bats with his paw. His brother is very jittery, won’t come near us, back away if we go near him or ducks. He seems to be getting worse now, if I put my hand out towards him to let him sniff he will try to scratch me.
the brothers are lovely together but one hates us!
any help or suggestions?

Are they litter siblings or just two kittens put together by the rescue?

It sounds like he wasn't properly socialised and was maybe feral/semi-feral?

They’re litter siblings, socialised really well and looked after.
Should we keep trying to pick him up for cuddles, we give some treats, we play. Should we leave him alone or carry on?
theyre not neutered yet.

It's difficult as at four months, they're outside of their key socialisation window so you don't want to flood him and scare him.

What happens if you just ignore him? Will he ever approach you on his own?

He’ll sometimes come and sniff or try to play whilst I’m folding washing. But will then also go for my hands.

thanks for your help. He’s got second vaccinations next week so will ask the vet too.

just so odd as his brother is so comfortable and happy

What about if you play with him? It sounds more like he's nervous/scared than anything else - I would maybe try lots of play and positive association from a distance so he can't attack you.

We adopted a semi-feral who behaved like this, but he was much younger so we just handled him as much as possible to get him used to humans - but once they get out of their socialisation window it's much more difficult unfortunately.

I hope you manage to get it sorted!

Good point - they broke our last fishing rod toys so maybe I’ll get a few more. Thank you! I love him from afar!