Apple Maggot

rhagoletis pomonella (image: Joseph Berger)

rhagoletis pomonella (USDA)

A wee fly, a bit smaller but closely resembling a deer fly. Feeds on and lays eggs in the developing fruit. Sticky traps have some effect, as well as targeted organic sprays. Won’t bother fruit meant for cider or processing. There is evidence that quick chilling can kill any eggs that inhabit the fruit.