Stop watching him eat.....he is defensive striking becasue he is stressed out....he is 'worried' that is he strikes and coils, you are going to do something to him......alot of hatchlings do it.......put in hopper, or rat pup, whatever you are feeding, close the tub/tank and walk away....leave him in the dark......give him 10-15 minutes.....I would be willing to bet he will eat....just doesn't need you hovering over him, stressing him out......
Jason