I clip on a need to basis, when I close the yard up there is a reason, and they need to stay in. I find most hens cant get more than 3 feet off the ground, and my Rooster found it just enuf insult to keep him in (he can jump the 4 foot fence with much effort). I had 1 hen that even with clipped wing she was getting out, spotted her flapping her wings and climbing the 4 foot fence, moved her to an area that only has only an 18" fence and she (and 2 others) stay there, but the roosters just wont let her be,,,, and they dont go into the area she is in even though they could, now only 1 rooster and he (and the flock) visit. Another flock of younger birds also with a roo, come by and visit also. Both flocks free range the same area,,, for now.