The grazing system on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau is unique from that elsewhere in the world. Effects of quantitative stocking rates on decomposition of livestock feces is rare. In this study,we compared sheep feces decomposition patterns under two specific stocking rates by the method of piled-up two pots pile in an alpine meadow. The results showed that decomposition rates of sheep feces with 8 sheep /hm~2 were higher than that with 16 sheep /hm~2. The return of C,N,and P as well as the residue and leaching of C and N in sheep feces increased with increasing stock rates,while the emission of C and N also increased. A negative relationship was found between C/N ratios and the decomposition rate of P in sheep feces,while a positive relationship was found between N/P ratios and the decomposition rate of C. Based on the exponential model of Olson,the decomposition periods of 50% and 95% for dry matter,C,N,P,cellulose,and hemicellulose ( except lignin) in sheep feces were longer with 16 than 8 sheep /hm~2. Decomposition rates per unit dry weight and per unit area of feces were quicker with 16 than 8 sheep /hm~2. In the context of global warming,these results are useful in guiding studies on grazing strategies in alpine meadows.