King Charles turns 77: Surprising facts about the monarch

King Charles is celebrating his 77th birthday today on November 14.

First royal baby born at Buckingham Palace, he is the child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh:

On this auspicious day, let’s have a lot at 10 surprising facts about King Charles III:

University Degree Holder

He is the first British monarch to hold a university degree, graduating from Cambridge University in 1970.

Skips Lunch

The King, according to former aides, skips lunch and maintains a strict daily routine.

His routine includes a walk and afternoon tea at 5 p.m., with dinner usually served at 8:30 p.m.

Environmental Champion

The 77-year-old monarch, who has been battling cancer, has been a vocal advocate for environmental causes.

The causes include plastic pollution and climate change, since the 1970s.

Music Lover

The former Duke of Cornwall plays the cello, piano, and trumpet, and has even performed with his university orchestra.

Multilingual

The King is multilingual, which means he can speak English, French, and German, and Welsh, having learned the language in preparation for becoming Prince of Wales in 1969.

King Charles’ Philanthropy

He’s a huge philanthropist; he founded over 20 charities, including the Prince's Trust, which has raised over £140 million for good causes.

His Car Is Powered By Two Unique Elements

The King had his vintage Aston Martin converted to run on bioethanol fuel derived from the surplus wine and cheese by-products.

King Charles Talks To Plants

The monarch "talks" to his plants and is an avid gardener and advocate for organic farming, known for publicly stating that talking to his plants helps them grow. 

Frog Named After Him

DId you know? there's an Ecuadorian stream tree frog species named "Hyloscirtus princecharlesi" in King Charles’ honour.

Monarch Is A Author

Back in 1980, the King wrote a children's book, "The Old Man of Lochnagar".

Secret Service Nickname

Yes, he has a Secret Service nickname which is "Unicorn"; a nod to Scotland's national animal.

His Artistic Talent

The monarch is a skilled watercolour painter and has exhibited his work to raise money for charity.