I always feed my babies in groups & keep an eye out for any that don't appear to be eating. Those I will separate out for a feeding or two and reintroduce after they eat. I agree that the squabbles seem to stimulate competitive feeding responses. There's always a risk involved of course, but imo with the Checkereds I work with it works out much better in the end with great confident, strong feeders. I'd be more hesitant with known potential cannibals like wandering garters.