The worm-eating warbler (Helmitheros vermivorus) is a ground-dwelling neotropical migrant that typically breeds within large sloping forest patches. On 7 July 2000 at 07:36 CDT, a female H. vermivorus was captured at an agricultural ditch in Poinsett County, Arkansas. The warbler was aged as after hatching year (ASY) and had a fully developed brood patch with complete feather loss. This occurrence was unusual because it was outside the reported breeding range for this species and the warbler was in a small (3.52 ha) forest patch in a flat landscape. Observations of worm-eating warblers in alluvial areas of Arkansas occur during the migratory period, but are relatively rare. The timing of this summer observation, presence of a brood patch, and lack of fat deposition in the furcular cavity indicated a recent breeding attempt; however, this does not preclude a dispersing individual. In either case, closer monitoring in lowland habitats during breeding and post-breeding periods might provide additional knowledge on the conservation status and habitat needs of this species.