I don't know what to tell ya, Paul. How does he feel in your hands? You say his feeding response is getting weaker, but does he remain active and alert when being handled? Does his muscle tone still feel solid and healthy? If so, then it could be an early maturity. I've heard of people breeding male bp's at less than a year old, if they have grown big enough.

I hope the blood does well for you, too...but it seems to me that you picked another difficult species to work with. I'm sure you've been following Smulkin's trials with his new blood. It doesn't mean that they won't eat, and won't thrive for you...just means that you'll end up with an ulcer or two in the process. :wink:

I do know how you feel...I'm trying very hard not to worry myself sick about Caesar, who has eaten nothing but a scant few pinks since early December. It just doesn't do me any good to worry beyond what is necessary to make sure he's well cared for.

You're doing all you can do. His environment is as good as it can be, I'm quite sure. You just have to leave the rest of it up to him.