I left mine on :/ I think you either leave them on permanently and/or remove them completely not cut away at the clip and leave the part that pierces the wing....I'm no expert though so maybe someone who knows more will come along...
I got the smaller ones out. But can't get under the black chicks clip to cut it out. She can't move her wing but don't seem to be in pain till I try to mess with it.going to see if I can find some one to help after work tomorrow