oh, and when i did finally get him to eat. i used the opportunity to feed him little and often. for example i fed him on 5 days one week. but just a tiny amount each day, and, in different places/times each day. i figured that the more succesful eats he has under his belt, irrelevant of the size, will make him more confident. and hopefully also make him more willing to come out of his hide. and it seems to be true.

maybe this is worth trying if you want yours to be a solid eater in the future.