A multi-fiber push on (MPO) optical connector includes a housing supporting a ferrule body. The ferrule body forms an optical connection with a second MPO optical connector. The ferrule body includes a connection end having a distal end face arranged to face the second MPO optical connector when the ferrule body forms the optical connection with the second MPO optical connector. The connection end of the ferrule body defines a recess extending proximally into the ferrule body from the distal end face. A plurality of optical fibers are received in the ferrule body. Distal ends of the optical fibers are adjacent to a proximal end of the recess such that the distal ends of the optical fibers are spaced apart from the second MPO optical connector when the ferrule body forms an optical connection with the second MPO optical connector. The distal ends of the optical fibers are coated with an anti-reflective material.