I think ground squirrels are something I'm not familiar with...at all...tree squirrels here. That said, you certainly don't need a scope on a decent air rifle out to 40-50 yds...I do think Higgins & I will agree on that much

. Mebbe you can't...but I'd likely break out a .22 or something deadlier that goes "bang"...just beause I can....
Or just call Vash