A wild wolf in Denmark was shot dead as two naturalists observed the moment on camera.

The incident, which took place on farmland east of Uldborg in West Jutland two weeks ago, is the first known case of a wolf being killed in Denmark since the species migrated from the country 200 years ago, Danish national TV broadcaster DR reports.

The rarely-seen animal does not appear aggressive or to be a threat to anyone around, but is suddenly shot dead. It was the last thing two spectators expected, who happened to catch the moment on camera. Their film is now sparking outrage and fueling a debate over wolves' right to be (or not to be) in Denmark.

On one side, animal rights advocates argue that the country's first functioning wolf pack for centuries should be protected. Others emphasize the potential danger for people living in West Jutland, where the animals have recently settled.

Academics, too, are upset. Guillaume Chapron, associate professor at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, has said that the killing is "completely unacceptable" as the animal shows no sign of aggression before being shot.

"From the video recording of the animal behaviour, there was absolutely no threat to humans and there was also no indication whatsoever that this animal could become a threat," Chapron told The Guardian.