Clipping wings

[monicaei]

Hi!

Is there a way and appropriate age to clip a chickens wings? I dont want them flying all over the place and roosting somewhere I cant get to them. Is this common practice? Or even necessary? Can I do it myself?

 

[Wooden_Pony]

This link is very helpful.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/LC-wingclipping.html

I normally clip only one wing and I only clip one of my hens. The others are not "flyers" but one of my EE's she can fly.

 

[Wolf-Kim]

Clipping feathers can be done at any age as long as their are feathers on the wings.

Yes, it is a common practice for backyard keepers. It isn't wise for free-ranging birds because it limits their roost and escape options. If you plan on showing birds, I think you are not suppose to clip feathers.

Yes, it is something you can do yourself, and normally by yourself, depending on how tame your chickens are. If they are wild and crazy it may be easier(on you and the bird) to have someone hold while you trim.

-Kim

 

[midget_farms]

I clipped mine. Only took a minute or so. It's just like clipping fingernails or cutting hair.

Just clip the flight feathers. I also only clipped one wing. The thought is that if 1 wing gets flight & the other doesn't the birds balance will be thrown off & they can't get any height.

The birds I just brought home were totally free at the previous home & the lady said they could fly over a 6 foot fence (though I didn't see any 6 foot fences). I have a pen with a 5 foot fence & I don't think they have even tried to fly yet.

Point is, its easy - safe & doesn't hurt. Though you will have to repeat the procedure every time your birds molt.