December 14, 2008 - If you were thinking about buying a Kota the Triceratops toy for the holidays, now is a good time to take a second look, because retail prices on the Kota the Triceratops toy are all over the place lately.

The suggested retail is $300, but for several weeks, Target had Kota marked down to $237. Just this past week, we have seen it for $99.99 at both Target and Toys'R'Us. Forum posts on SlickDeals.net report that Costco has Kota for $89.99.

The price on Amazon.com has also fluctuated up and down from $99 to $199, so if you don't have a car large enough to get Kota at a bricks-and-mortar store, keep checking Amazon.

Speaking of crazy price changes on Amazon, the giant new Star Wars Millennium Falcon is $99.88 today, down from $129 or so last week.

Here's the Hasbro/Playskool description of Kota:

KOTA THE TRICERATOPS
(Ages 3 years & up/Approximate Retail Price: $300/Available: Fall 2008)
PLAYSKOOL goes prehistoric with the introduction of the KOTA THE TRICERATOPS. Featuring sophisticated electronics, animatronics and design, this 'life-size' baby dinosaur 'comes to life' creating a magical experience for preschoolers. Measuring over 40-inches long, KOTA THE TRICERATOPS reacts to touch and sound with realistic dinosaur noises and movements. Featuring sensors in eleven areas on his body, KOTA will react to touch by moving his head, tail and horns or giving a friendly dino roar. With KOTA THE TRICERATOPS children will enjoy the simulated experience of 'riding' a dinosaur; kids can ride comfortably on his back in a spring-loaded seat, holding onto a handle hidden behind the dinosaur's head. To enhance the fantasy play of going for an adventure, while 'riding' KOTA children will hear fun jungle sounds. Kids can also flip a switch on the handle to play adventure-themed songs while enjoying their prehistoric journey. KOTA THE TRICERATOPS comes complete with leafy greens that the dinosaur will 'munch' when 'fed.' And, like a good friend, KOTA will roar back when spoken to. Six "D" batteries are required but not included.