It's the toy that's on every child's lips this year: Hatchimals, it's the new toy that's become a hit with kids and a hassle for parents to track down.

The new toy allows youngsters to hatch their own 'egg', teaching their Hatchimal character as it grows, mimicking a real child's development from baby to child, in order to advance to new stages and unlock new games to play.

For those who were around in the days of Tamagotchis in the playground -Hatchimals is the 2.0 version.

The interactive toy has been selling out fast since hitting the shelves of major retailers last month. Both Tesco and The Entertainer Toy Shop have reportedly sold out, while other retailers have been forced to implement pre-sale or in-store only purchases to deal with the unexpected surge in demand.

Interest has been so high, the official Hatchimals site has issued this warning to customers: "The consumer response to Hatchimals has been extraordinary, exceeding all expectations. Some of our first shipments have already sold out. While additional product will hit retail shelves in November, we anticipate this inventory will also sell out quickly.

"We have increased production and a whole new batch of Hatchimals will be ready to hatch in early 2017. This is a special season and we don’t want anyone to be disappointed, nor do we support inflated prices from non-authorized resellers. We are working on creative solutions to help kids and their parents withstand the wait. In the interim, some retailers are developing pre-sale and/or rain-check programs for redemption in January. We will continue to update with program details as they become available."

But with Christmas just a few weeks away, panicked parents are clamouring to get their hands on the coveted toy in time for the big day. On eBay Hatchimal dolls are being listed for between £90 and £150 - way above the RRP. We've even spotted one that sold for an eye-watering £249.95.

On UK Parenting website Playpennies, a number of parents have shared information about stock availability for the toy at major online and high street retailers.

Parents can check out the latest list below, or head over to the Playpennies website to read the updated thread here.

In stock:

Toys R Us - £59.99 (Including exclusive Owlicorn). Available in limited stores.

Smyths - £59.99 (available in-store only)

Very - £56.99

Argos - £59.99

Limited stock or higher RRP

eBay from £89.99

Amazon from £105

Currently out of stock:

Tesco Direct - £56.95

The Entertainer - £59.99

ASDA George - £59.97

John Lewis - £59.99