clipping both wings

[mamas]

I have 7 Welsummers hens and 1 rooster that free range on about a half an acre that is surrounded by a 4 ft fence. This fence backs up to 3 other neighbours yards. Originally I did not clip any of their wings because I wanted them to be able to get away from cats or raccoons and such. Well they kept flying over the fence and ending up in neighbours yards and going close to the road. So I clipped the wings on their right. The first day I was happy because they seemed to stay in the yard, now they are all flying over again, I am afraid of angering neighbours and or having them get killed by a dog or any number of animals. I feel the only solution is to clip both wings otherwise they have to stay penned up in a small run , and I know that doesn't make them happy. Does anyone have any comments on this?

 

[Granny Hatchet]

they can probably just jump this high. i would wonder if you could extend the height of the fence?

 

[4 the Birds]

I believe the theory of clipping just one wing is to create an unstable flight for the bird. Clipping both wings may reduce lift but may help stabilize the flight and not be advised. Feathers grow back and if you clip then you will need to reclip from time to time. I would add a tension wire or fence extension above of the fence. Not sure what type of fence that you have but often time top rails are inviting places. Concentrate your wire above those places. I have never clipped our birds and they stay within a 4' high field fence. A heavy breed is more prone to stay inside. Hope this helps.

 

[Granny Hatchet]

hi, is westfield close to madison?

 

[4 the Birds]

Granny.... We are just north of Indy. I believe you are down near the Kentucky line.

 

[Granny Hatchet]

yes that is right, madison, milton ky. but you are the closest person i have found so far. about an hour and half to two hrs.lol

 

[Granny Hatchet]

nice coop by the way