I agree that young snakes are genetically disposed to try and grow as quickly as possible, hence eating more or more frequently, etc. However, I think people use this as too much of an excuse. Moderation is the key. Don't offer a hatchling 5 fuzzies just because you know he will take them...he is genetically determined to take them. There is no need for them to grow too fast and risk later health effects in captivity. In the wild, the risk of being prey when they are tiny is higher than the chance that they will get some health issue later in life from growing too fast as a hatchling, for this reason, they eat more/have a higher metabolism w/e. I think it is our responsibility as keepers to act in the best interest of the snakes and hobby, not our own wallets or goals.

As for what is or isnt powerfeeding and how to recognize if you are over/powerfeeding (depending on your definition), is a vicious cycle. Most of the big breeders are the ones that are powerfeeding more regularly, and because they have so many snakes, are unable to have a personal connection with each animal to notice all of the stress indicators or overall well being, like a smaller hobby breeder might have the time and motivation to do. This is just food for though but something I think is crucial none the less.

I had another thought going....but I lost it.