Massive cache attributed to CloudKit

So apparently I got 787Gb of System Data on my MacBook Pro M1 (13", Early 2020):



Upon inspection and using CleanMyMac I found that the culprit was a cache folder titled `com.apple.bird` which took the whole space up (screen shot from previous reboot):


I've deleted this and the system continues to run fine, but quickly it fills up space again until I have only 3~4Gb of space left.


I have asked Apple Support and they recommended the following:


  • Reboot in Safe Mode
  • Rebuild Spotlight Index as per instructions
  • Restart the system


Issue persists. Anyone else having the same issue?


2020 MBP 13"

16Gb RAM

1TB SSD

Monterey 12.4.

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 12.4

Posted on Jul 5, 2022 4:23 PM

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Posted on Jul 6, 2022 5:38 AM

My suggestion: get rid of CleanMy Mac asap per their uninstall instructions. It can, and does, disrupt operations.


After that, do Apple's suggestions again.


If all else fails, reinstall the OS. Takes maybe 40 minutes and doesn't touch apps, data or settings. Of course a setting may be the culprit so a fresh start may be in order. Or you could just not migrate settings and start that afresh.

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Jul 6, 2022 5:38 AM in response to GusDev

My suggestion: get rid of CleanMy Mac asap per their uninstall instructions. It can, and does, disrupt operations.


After that, do Apple's suggestions again.


If all else fails, reinstall the OS. Takes maybe 40 minutes and doesn't touch apps, data or settings. Of course a setting may be the culprit so a fresh start may be in order. Or you could just not migrate settings and start that afresh.

Jul 6, 2022 7:09 AM in response to GusDev

Rebuild the Spotlight index on your Mac


What is “Other” storage on a Mac, and how can I clean it out?


Free up storage space on your Mac


OmniDiskSweeper Safe to use


GrandPerspective 


How to delete Time Machine snapshots on your Mac


See used and available storage space on your Mac


Locate backups of your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch


And, If using Carbon Copy Cloner would suggest tweaking the SafetyNet Configuration in CCC as there might be addition Snap Shots lurking on the Internal Drive associated with CCC


The final word from Apple on Managing the " Other/ System Data “ Category


Other / System Data: Contains files that don’t fall into the categories listed here. This category primarily includes files and data used by the system, such as log files, caches, VM files, and other runtime system resources. Also included are temporary files, fonts, app support files, and plug-ins. You can't manage the contents of this category. The contents are managed by macOS, and the category varies in size depending on the current state of your Mac.

Jul 6, 2022 7:13 AM in response to Owl-53

Thanks for the message; turns out that it was not CleanMyMac's fault or anything. I have contacted Apple Support again and they have narrowed down to a slow internet connection and the MacOS iCloud backup/download attempts: too many cache files all of which are conflicting most likely. They will get back to me with more information on this issue.


I'll read about CleanMyMac, thanks

Jul 6, 2022 7:01 AM in response to GusDev

Very Much agree with @ku4hx regarding CleanMyMac which is akin to Malware.


Yes, malware to be polite but would use stronger words if allowed on these Forums.


Any Third Party Applications that will interfere with the normal operation of the OS,  is an invitation for disaster and comprising the Operating System


Any of the below should be removed as per Developers Instructions 


Do not Drag and Drop to Trash as this will make a bad situation even worse


This will include CleanMyMac 


Do suggest reading some of the first 600 posting specific to this Application and arrive at your own conclusions.


There has been sufficient advise offered, from more than one Contributor, for the User ( you ) to make an informed and educated choice what the next course of action is required.


The suggestions have been put forth on a volunteer basis, in good faith and in the best interests of the computer.

Jul 6, 2022 7:29 AM in response to GusDev

Would have to say, that would a guess at best, unless the User Allowed them Direct Access to this computer to Analyze the actually Internet Connection speed.


Even we, who are also working Remotely could not perform such an analysis of Internet Speed on that computer.


Did they know CMM was installed when they were connected ?


EDITED added information

Jul 7, 2022 1:37 AM in response to GusDev

GusDev wrote:

You write like a machine 😅

I, the User, can safely say my internet speed has been subpar in multiple locations where I had to back data up and pull it down from iCloud so it’s not Apple’s comment but mine. And yes they did know there was CleanMyMac installed.

Try to be objective and on point. This just elevates things even higher IMHO


You are welcome for the free assistance.


Do come back to the Apple Support Communities ( ASC )  in the future, if / or when additional questions may arise



This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Massive cache attributed to CloudKit

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