Is it true?

[lazypifarm]

Yes, to both. It will upset the pecking order, but they will adapt. Worry not, they will be alright! You can get stuff called Blue Kote to put on any wounds, if you have someone who gets injured.

 

[Frost Homestead]

mine are completely free range and it's difficult to tell there is any pecking order. the only time I notice it is when I throw out some feed, some of them are a little greedy and don't want to share. other than that my hens all seem to get along well once they are full grown, the younger ones stay to themselves