Possible to remove Pella upper screen clip without removing mesh?

I'm trying to remove the upper screen clips. The edge that secures to the inside of the frame hooks around the lip of the spline trough. It does not seem possible to unhook the clip without removing the mesh in that area. Is this a part that was put on before the frame was meshed, and therefore comes off only after removing the mesh? I'd rather not damage the mesh if possible. Thanks!