Yes, coyotes woyld be a problem. And yes your peas would probably go into the woods to explore and roost in the trees. I think there is a thread here on free ranging...Zazouse and a couple others here do it, so talk to them. I know Zaz has dogs to protect her flock. I think others free range...
Most don't like to be touched, but they sure like to know what's going on. They can be very loud (I'm only just experiencing this as my pair are only 1) but I like their sounds. Mine have a shed they use in the winter and I made them a heated roost. Toes freezing is the main concern. Mine did...